9781422270523

HEROIN

WHAT IS ALCOHOL? Alcohol: Legal but Potentially Dangerous Alcohol is the most popularly abused drug in the world. It is enjoyed on every continent, even in Antarctica at research stations. Its history stretches thousands of years and through just about every culture. It is commonly used as an ingredient in beverages. The dangers of alcohol have been strongly highlighted over the years, with many calling for serious restrictions or even an outright ban. However, an attempt to ban alcohol in the early 1900s in the United States ( Prohibition ) was unsuccessful. It is now considered socially acceptable to use alcohol in the United States and other countries, even though its many dangers are well known by just about every drinker. In a minority of countries (such as Brunei, Iran, Kuwait, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, and Sudan), alcohol is banned or strictly limited to use by foreign tourists. Understanding the nature of alcohol, why it is abused, and whether it has any benefits can help you understand this social

15

Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software