Carl Hart is a distinguished Professor of Psychology at Columbia University, renowned as a leading neuroscientist and drug researcher. He serves as the Director of the Division of Substance Abuse Sciences and is a prominent figure challenging mainstream misconceptions about psychoactive substances, particularly cannabis. Holding a Ph.D. in Pharmacology and a Ph.D. in Psychology, Hart is celebrated for his rigorous empirical research that demonstrates that the vast majority of individuals who use cannabis do not develop dependence or severe cognitive impairment. His work has been instrumental in dismantling the 'gateway drug' theory and debunking the notion that cannabis is a highly addictive substance. As a public intellectual, he advocates for drug policy reform and evidence-based education, aiming to replace moral panic with scientific understanding. His contributions have significantly influenced public discourse on drug policy, earning him a reputation as a courageous voice of reason in the sciences. His seminal book, *Drug Use for Grown-Ups*, has become a cornerstone text for understanding the complex relationship between drugs, the brain, and society.
