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Alcoholism Books
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Study and Stimulants Or, the Use of Intoxicants and Narcotics in Relation to Intellectual Life, as Illustrated by Personal Communications on the Subject, from Men of Letters and of Science
"Study and Stimulants" by A. Arthur Reade is a scientific publication likely written in the late 19th century. This work investigates the effects of intoxicants and narcotics on intellectual life, featuring accounts from various prominent figures in literature and science. The primary topic revolves around the impact of stimulants, particularly tobacco and alcohol, on cognitive performance and mental exertion, aiming to provide clarity on whether these substances enhance or hinder intellectual capabilities. The opening of the book introduces the ongoing debate regarding the influence of commonly used intoxicants. Reade expresses the confusion faced by students and intellectual workers seeking guidance on whether to use such substances in their pursuits. Several personal communications from well-known figures, including authors and scientists, are included to shed light on their experiences and insights regarding the use of alcohol and tobacco while engaging in intellectual work. These testimonials suggest a range of opinions, with some advocating for moderation and others asserting total abstinence, thus painting a complex picture of the relationship between mind-enhancing efforts and stimulant use.
Robert Macnish
The anatomy of drunkenness
"The Anatomy of Drunkenness" by Robert Macnish is a scientific publication written in the early 19th century. This work explores various aspects of drunkenness, including its historical context, causes, and effects on both the body and mind. It addresses how drunkenness has influenced societies over time and examines different substances that induce intoxication, as well as their varying impacts. At the start of the book, Macnish introduces the enduring nature of drunkenness throughout history, citing examples from antiquity and observing its prevalence in different cultures. He argues that drunkenness is not merely a modern vice but has roots in ancient societies, showing how it has both evolved and varied with time and climate. The opening chapters outline preliminary observations, the causes of drunkenness, and the effects it has, suggesting that different temperaments influence one's response to alcohol and detailing the physical and psychological phenomena that accompany intoxication.
Arthur Mee
The Fiddlers; Drink in the Witness Box
"The Fiddlers; Drink in the Witness Box" by Arthur Mee is a critical examination of the impact of alcohol on society and the war effort, written in the early 20th century, notably during World War I. This work appears to convey strong anti-alcohol sentiments, arguing that the drink trade undermines the country's strength during wartime and contributes to social and economic woes. Mee highlights the detrimental effects of alcohol on both the general population and soldiers, suggesting it is a significant enemy alongside the forces of Germany. The opening of the text establishes a passionate tone as Mee presents a compelling argument against the drink trade, asserting that it prolongs the war and exacerbates dire food shortages. He cites various statistics and examples of the massive quantities of food destroyed for beverage production, claiming that this waste directly threatens national security. Through a series of anecdotes and reports, he builds a case that emphasizes the ruin caused by alcohol at home—neglect, poverty, and broken families—contrasting sharply with the sacrifices of soldiers fighting abroad. The piece serves both as a historical piece and a call to action for societal reform regarding alcohol consumption.
Joseph Cook
Alcohol and the Human Brain
"Alcohol and the Human Brain" by Joseph Cook is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The book examines the detrimental effects of alcohol on the human brain and body through a blend of physiological and moral arguments. It serves as a passionate appeal for temperance, exploring the implications of alcohol consumption on mental faculties and societal conduct. In the text, Joseph Cook utilizes various experiments and scientific inquiries to illustrate how alcohol hardens albuminous substances in the body, severely affecting blood and brain function. He explains that alcohol's affinity for the brain disrupts rational thought and moral judgment, leading to both individual and societal deterioration. Throughout the work, Cook argues against even moderate drinking, emphasizing that any consumption of alcohol poses a significant risk to one's mental and moral integrity. With a mix of vivid imagery and scientific rigor, Cook underscores the urgent need for total abstinence to safeguard both individual well-being and societal health.
Charles Barnes Towns
Habits that Handicap: The Menace of Opium, Alcohol, and Tobacco, and the Remedy
"Habits that Handicap: The Menace of Opium, Alcohol, and Tobacco, and the Remedy" by Charles B. Towns is a medical treatise written in the early 20th century. The work addresses the dangers of habit-forming substances, specifically opium, alcohol, and tobacco, and outlines a call for reform in how these drugs are prescribed and controlled. Towns provides an analysis of the social and physiological implications of addiction, highlighting the neglect in addressing these issues by the medical profession and society at large. The opening of the book presents a preface and introductory remarks that emphasize the pervasive and destructive nature of drug addiction, particularly as it relates to those initially seeking relief from pain. Towns advocates for a shift in medical practice—placing greater responsibility on physicians concerning the dispensing of harmful substances. He discusses the alarming statistics on drug use among the population, including medical professionals, and stresses the need for stringent regulations on drug distribution to prevent the widespread formation of habits. Through personal observations and experiences, Towns sets the stage for a broader examination of the connection between societal attitudes toward addiction, medical responsibility, and the urgency for a structured response to drug misuse.
Samuel G. (Samuel George) Blythe
Cutting It Out: How to get on the waterwagon and stay there
"Cutting It Out: How to get on the waterwagon and stay there" by Samuel G. Blythe is a personal narrative written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around Blythe's decision to quit drinking alcohol—what he refers to as getting "on the waterwagon." It explores his experiences, reflections, and the emotional journey he undertook as he navigated through his established drinking habits and started embracing sobriety. In the book, Blythe shares candid insights about his relationship with alcohol, noting that while he was not an alcoholic in the conventional sense, he felt compelled to reevaluate his drinking habits as he grew older. He avoids presenting himself as a moral reformer; instead, he discusses the personal decision to quit drinking at a time when he felt it was still enjoyable, emphasizing the importance of individual choice rather than social pressure. The narrative details the challenges he faced, including cravings and changes in social dynamics, while ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of himself and the choices he made. Throughout the chapters, Blythe reflects on the social aspects of drinking, the delusions many harbor about their habits, and the importance of recognizing one's own motivations and needs when making significant lifestyle changes.
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