If someone argues that if a drug abuser causes harm at a societal level,

rehabilitation may be unjust towards the affected individuals, you can respond with
the following points:

Balancing Justice and Rehabilitation: Acknowledge the importance of addressing the

harm caused by drug abuse and emphasize that rehabilitation does not mean ignoring
or excusing the consequences of one's actions. While rehabilitation focuses on
helping individuals overcome addiction and reintegrate into society, it does not
disregard the need for accountability and justice. In cases where harm has been
inflicted on others, appropriate legal measures can be taken alongside
rehabilitation to ensure a fair and just response.

Restorative Justice Approaches: Highlight the concept of restorative justice, which

aims to repair the harm caused by criminal behavior and promote healing for both
the victims and the offenders. Restorative justice models involve mediation,
reconciliation, and restitution, allowing the affected individuals to have a voice,
be heard, and participate in the process of finding resolution. This approach
acknowledges the harm caused while also seeking to rehabilitate the offender and
prevent future harm.

Rehabilitation for Behavior Change: Emphasize that rehabilitation aims to address

the root causes of drug addiction and promote behavior change. By providing
individuals with access to treatment, counseling, and support, we can help them
understand the consequences of their actions, develop empathy, and learn to make
healthier choices. Rehabilitation programs often include components such as
therapy, life skills training, and addressing the impact of their actions on
others, enabling individuals to take responsibility for their behavior and work
towards making amends.

Public Safety Measures: Acknowledge that in cases where drug-related actions pose
an immediate threat to public safety, appropriate measures can be taken to protect
the community. This can include temporary restrictions, such as supervised release,
monitoring, or community service, to ensure that the individual receives the
necessary treatment and supervision while minimizing potential risks to others. The
objective remains to promote rehabilitation and address the root causes of
addiction while safeguarding the well-being of the community.

Addressing Systemic Issues: Highlight the importance of addressing systemic issues

that contribute to drug addiction and associated harms. By focusing on prevention,
education, and addressing social factors such as poverty, inequality, and lack of
access to healthcare, we can work towards creating a society that supports
individuals in making positive choices and reduces the likelihood of harm being
inflicted on others.

By presenting these points, you can demonstrate that rehabilitation is not

synonymous with overlooking the harm caused by drug abuse. Instead, it seeks to
address the root causes of addiction, promote behavior change, and implement
restorative justice measures when appropriate. The objective is to create a
balanced and just approach that prioritizes both accountability and the potential
for rehabilitation and personal growth.