Just because much of the science has flaws does not mean that the effect is temporary, we don't really know what the long term effects might be. But even assumi

Just because much of the science has flaws does not mean that the effect is temporary, we don't really know what the long term effects might be. But even assuming it had no bad long term effects on the brain, if one were a regular user then it would regularly drop your intelligence and motivation, which itself is a disadvantage. This is no different than drinking regularly. I may be more keenly aware of this than people in the US, but life is a global competition for resources, and it's unwise to squander your competitive edge. Ritalin probably has more risks, I've not decided that it's worth the tradeoff yet. I guess the core of your question is a deeper one about life, happiness, and the tradeoffs we make. I think the answer to that is different for everyone. Life is short and without intrinsic meaning. You have to focus on what gives it value for you, which is likely very different from the next person. For me, I enjoy creating things, and I feel most alive when in the zone churning out code. Most other people probably enjoy activities that are more social.