Magnus Linton is a Swedish writer, who looks into the ideas of ethics and politics. He has written on the ethics of eating meat, the rise of neo-socialism in Latin America and the emergence of the radical right in Europe. His new book is Cocaina: A Book on Those Who Make It. In the book, Linton explores Colombia and examines its recent history and current state, looking at the culture that has led to the country producing some 60% of the world’s cocaine. He talks to drug tourists, manufacturers, hit-men, and the American military, and tries to explain how the violence and absurdity that governs much of the country originated. It’s an absolutely fascinating book that delves far beneath the surface, touching on the political, economic and social aspects of the global drug trade.

Magnus joined Sky Kirkham in the studio and talked about the production cycle, the future of the drug war, and what brought a Swedish reporter to Colombia. Originally broadcast on 23/05/2013. Cocaina is out now through Scribe.