| Kudistos Megistos said: You're completely wrong. Alcoholism was seen as a serious social problem amongst the working classes in Victorian Britain (just one example). In mediaeval England (and probably throughout northern Europe) a huge proportion of an average person's daily calories came from beer. Alcohol was so widely consumed that genes for alcohol tolerance were selected for in Northern Europe; people actually evolved to be able to handle alcohol better. There was even special beer for children (which was about 3% ABV, rather than the 10% that adults drank back then) In France and much of central Europe in the 19th century, absinthe was banned because it was causing serious health problems for the general population. Even as far back as ancient Greece, alcohol was cheap and its effects (including fights in the tabernas) were a frequent source of comedy. In fact, at many points in European history, most people drank nothing but wine or beer (depending on their country), because water was dirty and dangerous; they often mixed the wine with the water because alcohol gave a small amount of protection against bacteria. Granted, this made it weaker, but they were still consuming a lot of alcohol. I think you should phone up your history teacher and ask for a refund. |
Thanks for the history lesson, but you're alienating from my original point of alcohol consumption becoming widespread in this society. I took the liberty of finding some sources for you that claim alcohol consumption in fact is increasing. I really don't get why you're arguing against this, because it is clearly obvious that people are drinking more alcohol now and even at younger ages. There are many factors, but this increase in alcohol consumption in the west is also affecting countries in the east that are developing. Like I said earlier, alcohol consumption is increasing in other nations due to easier access to it. However, since the focus of my point is on western nations, I took the liberty of doing a simple google search and finding many studies that indicate alcohol consumption is increasing. You can argue all you want, but it is fairly evident within society that consumption is increasing, especially due to population growth and economical issues.
Alcohol consumption increasing among girls/women:
http://www.keystonetreatment.com/keystone_featured/alcohol-consumption-increasing-among-girls-young-women.php
Alcohol consumption increasing in Great Britain (bringing health issues):
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/3333411/Alcohol-consumption-doubles-since-the-1960s.html
Alcohol consumption increasing in the US:
http://www.alcoholismrehab.org/alcohol-abuse/alcohol-consumption-increasing-among-americans/
Binge drinking increasing among individuals in the US:
http://brookstonbeerbulletin.com/alcohol-consumption-on-the-rise/
Take these as you will, but it is clear in my mind that alcohol consumption, and the peer pressures associated with it are on a rise.
EDIT: Not to mention, media influences are also factors in rising alcohol consumption. Also, the strength of the industry now also plays a big role.
