Old and New Theories of Addiction

CLEARING THE PATH

Connections between the Old and the New Theories of Addiction

Addiction in the Earlier Centuries, Early Theories

the Temperance Movement

In the 17th century, alcohol did not have a bad name (Sturt, 2009). It was even more respected and considered safer than water and more healthful. This made the innkeeper of spirits a valuable member of the community in those days. Moreover, man was perceived as distinct from nature. Man has a soul and free will and a sense of responsibility for his actions. Animals, in contrast, only possess biological drives. This perception of man viewed alcoholics as too indulgent in the habit and, therefore, must be punished. In the late century up to the early 20th century, the formation of the temperance movement introduced the view of drinking as evil, which makes alcoholics victims. The first disease concept surfaced at...
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