Every individual is capable of injuring or killing himself. This potentiality is a fundamental expression of human freedom. Self-destructive behavior may be regarded as sinful and penalized by means of informal sanctions. But it should not be regarded as a crime or (mental) disease, justifying or warranting the use of the police powers of the state for its control. Therefore, it is absurd to deprive an adult of a drug (or of anything else) because he might use it to kill himself. Thomas Szasz, "The Ethics of Addiction".
A) Argument; conclusion: Every individual is capable of injuring or killing himself.
B) Argument; conclusion: Self destructive behavior ... informal sanctions.
C) Nonargument.
D) Argument; conclusion: This potentiality ... expression of human freedom.
E) Argument; conclusion: It is absurd to deprive an adult of a drug ... kill himself.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The passage presents an argument leading to the conclusion that it is unreasonable to deprive an adult of a drug because they might use it to harm themselves, based on the premise that self-destructive behavior should not be criminalized or considered a mental disease.

Every Individual Is Capable of Injuring or Killing Himself