Some of us simply accept as fact that we are alcoholics and then move on, taking the steps that empower us to recover. Others want to understand "the problem" better, There may be many reasons for wanting to understand the nature and cause of alcoholism. One reason is the belief that "a problem that is not understood and clearly defined cannot be properly solved."
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Past and Present Views on the Disease Concept
A Brief History of Alcohol Dependence Through the Ages
Yesterday:"Drunkenness is the result of a loss of willpower. Initially drinking is purely a matter of choice. It becomes a habit and then a necessity."
-- Benjamin Rush, 1784
Today:
"Alcoholism should not be judged as a problem of willpower, misconduct, or any other unscientific diagnosis. The problem must be accepted for what it is - a biopsychosocial disease with a strong genetic influence, obvious signs and symptoms, a natural progression and a fatal outcome if not treated."
-- Thomas R. Hobbs, Ph.D. M.D., 1998
See: http://www.alkermes.com/products/disease.html