Throughout the history of humanity, alcohol has been written in various inks. Some say it’s red, some say it’s golden. It is true that according to chemistry ‘alcohol is a solution’ and for some, it can be the solution to all of their problems. While alcoholism is not a joke, it is important to remember that indulging in something of the nature that alcohol possesses is not immoral. If the Gods we believe in can produce gallons and gallons of wine to distribute amongst their people, I am sure that alcohol could not be the sole reason why humanity is at doom.
Alcohol being an integral part of human civilization can be dated back to 6600 BCE. It has been shown in a rainbow of lights. However, the role it has played for us cannot be overlooked. A part of religion, medicine, celebration, literature, art, politics and many other spheres of our lifestyle, alcohol cannot be locked out just because of the notion that it is bad for health.
The Pros and Cons
We have all heard about the side effects of consuming alcohol, about how dangerous it is to one’s liver. While that is entirely true, what we do not hear about is the advantages of alcohol. It is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry to manufacture several drugs that many of us have used. According to studies, moderate use of alcohol can help reduce heart problems such as ischemic heart disease and even reduce deterioration of health due to stress. It also helps to enhance mental health and reduce blood clotting.
Of Course, all this is true IF alcohol is controlled. Unmonitored consumption of alcohol can cause dangerous impairments in judgement, speech, vision, and body. Accidents due to drunk driving are not uncommon. Numerous other life-threatening incidents such as uncontrolled violent instincts, alcohol poisoning, participation in illegal activities and many such things can be attributed to alcohol. High blood pressure, cancer, ulcers, etc can also be a result of uncontrolled alcohol consumption.
Alcohol and Economy
Does this mean that alcohol should be banned from consumption in non-medicinal ways? That is what India’s directive principles hope for. However, there is a reason why it is a directive principle and not a justifiable or enforced law. The prodigious amounts of income that the government makes from taxes applied on the sale of alcohol. The money generated goes to various government facilities that we utilize in our daily lives. It is also used for social benefit causes- even the ones spreading awareness against addiction. With the eighteen percent taxation on alcohol sales, every happy hour deal that you save money on is becoming a part of the backbone of your country’s economy.
Alcohol and Individual
There is a mist of myths around the concept of alcohol that prevents us from seeing its true picture. As a generation that is slowly growing towards the appropriate age of consumption of alcohol and experiencing tremendous peer pressure to do so, we must take the time to clear the air. To make an informed decision in regards to alcohol, first and foremost, one must be aware of their own self. Health sensitivity, the ability to hold yourself together, and power over temptations are necessary not only for a discussion over alcohol but any other indulgence you might engage in.
Second comes the knowledge of the law. Being of appropriate age, no drunk driving and making responsible decisions are equally important for your own well-being. Last but not least is the awareness of what you are drinking. Consuming items that you are not sure about and ending up being hurt, or worse, is not worth more than missing out on a round or few.
In today’s world, one must have all their senses in place at all times, even when sober. This is why getting drunk can become so tricky. Some people might try to take advantage of your situation. Thus it is important to set boundaries- boundaries for others and for your own self. Follow your rules, and those of the government, but remember to enjoy life just as much.
Writer : Kriti Gupta
Grade : 11 (Year 2024)
Place : Ambala, India
1 Comment
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