There is a constant dispute amongst the medical and psychological community as to whether alcoholism is, in fact, a disease or just a state of mind. Many of the researchers have classified alcoholism as a disease (Peele 1). Dictionary.com has defined "disease" broadly as an "involuntary choice made by the individual" (5 entries 1). This definition does not comply with alcoholics because they can, like any other human being, determine that drinking has many unwanted consequences behind it. But an alcoholic just simply doesn't care. They cause many of their own troubles by their behavior and the decisions they make. Why should they be looked upon as powerless victims of a falsely concluded disease (Peele 1)? Alcoholism should not be viewed as a disease, but as a habit brought about by the alcoholic's individual choices.
Alcoholism, also known as alcohol dependence, is a disease that is made up of the following four main symptoms that are common among the disease.
A Kranz (wreath) of Kölsch beer.
7338 - Moscow - Bolotnaya Proshad - Children are t...
alcoholismThey tend to have a craving, or the urge to drink (McKesson 1). The desire for satisfaction is not a sign of a disease, but a sign of humanity. Ill people don't tend to want to engage in enjoyment; they want to feel better. This is not the case with alcoholics; they tend to have "fun" being drunk and have no concern of getting better. A second symptom of alcoholism is having no strength of mind or will to stop the consumption of alcohol once it has started (McKesson 3). This perspective is totally ridiculous that any intelligent person would fall down laughing. How would anyone know if one is able to do something until he/she does it? The needless amount of drinking, even to the point of blacking out, doesn't show the inability to say no next...