ABSTRACT
Opium, with its dream-inducing effects, is linked to Greek mythology: one of its derivatives, morphine, is named after Morpheus, the Greek god of sleep and dreams. But this chapter draws its inspiration from Roman mythology—specifically from Janus, the god of gates, doorways, and beginnings and endings. The figure of Janus, which is characteristically depicted with two heads facing in opposite directions, is used here to suggest that despite pervasive views of opium’s damaging effects, it also offers transformative potential for peacebuilding in Afghanistan. This potential can be realized in three areas: the crop can (1) directly improve household welfare; (2) help smooth the way for the resolution of local conflicts; and (3) serve as a strategic resource, both to build governance and to provide the basis for building a social contract at the local level. The purpose of the chapter is not to advocate the cultivation of opium poppy but to argue that as long as opium poppy exists, a more strategic response—one that takes into consideration the opportunities it creates—may be in order.
