I understand where you're coming from. It can be argued that the laws and the social traditions against drug use are the direct cause of the deceptive and illegal behaviors of the addict. It's the same argument that it was Prohibition, not liquor, that caused a decade of American crime.
If Jackie had been a tobacco addict in the days before the leaf was connected to cancer, the only ill result might have been her early death--and maybe some harm to others through second-hand smoke. But if tobacco had been outlawed, her need for it may have forced her into the secrecy, deception, and lies we see her practicing throughout this series.
But there is a real difference in the nature of the substance being abused. The reason, for instance, that liquor became known as dangerous long before cigarettes were suspected is the irrational thinking and behavior it induces. Even though alcohol hasn't been outlawed (another industry "too big to fail"), AA groups and other support organizations sprang up all over the world--for good reason.
Likewise, it is the behavior caused by certain drugs that is exposed in NURSE JACKIE. While it is true that a certain level of drug usage can support periods of high functioning, it is very difficult for those who develop addiction to estimate how much to use and when to draw the line. While it is true that we have historical examples of successful drug users (e.g. Sigmund Freud)--even fictional types (e.g. Sherlock Holmes)-- these are the exceptions not the rule.
Yes, a fair amount of Jackie's wretched behavior is caused by the laws enforcing her secrecy. But the drugs themselves are also responsible for her losing touch with reality (the 800cc mistake!), and that irrationality is the essential reason for all the rules and hospital policy.
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