Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence

What do you make of Lembke’s choice to begin the book with Jacob’s story? What is her purpose here? How does she use it to introduce a broader commentary on modern society?

What is Lembke’s ultimate message when she shares David’s story in Chapter 2? What does his story suggest about wider trends in the practice of medicine?

Lembke notes, “I worry that we have both oversanitized and overpathologized childhood, raising our children in the equivalent of a padded cell, with no way to injure themselves but also no means to ready themselves for the world” (36). Do you agree with the concern she expresses here? Why or why not?

Lembke suggests that technological inventions are “digital drugs.” Do you agree? Why or why not?

While the book’s focus is addiction, the author makes other suggestions about how best to live life. One is to strive to always tell the truth. Is this practical advice? Does lying have a place in life? Explain your reasoning.

What is Lembke’s message about the intentional pursuit of pain? Do you think she recommends treading carefully? Do you think she implies that it’s preferable to the pursuit of pleasure? Explain your reasoning.

What are the multiple implications of how the text presents the concept of balance?

What is the lesson of Muhammad’s story in the book’s conclusion? Explain.