Evidence in European social drug research and drug policy

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Evidence as a metaphor for knowledge, characterized by objectivity, validity, and value-free truths, is a contested concept in social sciences, particularly in drug research. The politics surrounding knowledge production—encompassing how research is conducted, funded, and interpreted through value-laden lenses—remains a critical area of discussion. Despite this, the demand for objective data to guide evidence-based policy and demonstrate effectiveness is rapidly increasing. Research funders are increasingly favoring studies that can show a tangible impact on policy. The contributors critically examine the notion of evidence, challenging its portrayal as a neutral outcome of an apolitical process. Through case studies and policy analysis, they reveal how evidence is socially constructed by policymakers and those aiming to influence them. The authors delve into the epistemological and ontological foundations of various evidence forms, the selective inclusion of evidence within dominant policy narratives, and the popular notion of evidence-based policy as a hallmark of effective governance. Collectively, the chapters offer valuable insights into the intricate contexts surrounding the production, construction, misuse, and misinterpretation of social drug research evidence across Europe.