[Excerpt] Because every cure starts with an accurate diagnosis, in this book I explain how and why the current medicines system is dysfunctional and corrupt. We all want both affordable medicines and innovation in research and development, so I explain the proven approaches to accomplishing that balance. Most of us reject the status quo of corporations making record-breaking profits on medicines that are priced out of the range of the sick and the dying, so I set out the moral and rights-based foundation of the case for universal access to medicines. Finally, if you want to take action and speak out for access to medicines—and I sincerely hope you do—the conclusion to this book is devoted to helping you get started.