This essay explores the complexity of human motivation, particularly in the context of drug use and addiction. It challenges the simplistic notion that human actions are driven solely by the pursuit of pleasure or avoidance of pain, arguing instead for an expanded concept of “reward” as the primary motivator. Drawing on various models of addiction, including incentive-sensitization theory and hedonic-allostasis theory, the essay examines how drugs interact with neural circuits related to reward and motivation. It also highlights the interplay between dopamine, creativity, and survival mechanisms, offering insights into why people may use drugs for reasons beyond pleasure, such as problem-solving or enhancing creativity. The piece advocates for a broader understanding of reward and its role in shaping human behavior. Continue reading Drugs, Reward and the Brain