Why Is Social Drinking Taboo?

Why Is Social Drinking Taboo?

In 1996 an article appeared in the Los Angeles Times promoting positive drinking. The author, Stanton Peel, suggested that schools should teach kids “the truth about drinking” (Peele “Tell children”). He argued that it is wrong to teach children that alcohol is completely bad when many people drink it for pleasure, and everyone does not do so in excess. The message that abusing alcohol has many negative effects ranging from liver disease to levels of brain damage is well preached throughout schools, on television, and in the news. However, studies also show some positive health benefits as well as emotional benefits that drinking alcohol in moderation can have.
In a society that no longer promotes abstinence but now parades safe sex and contraceptives, how can moderate drinking still be regarded as bad? Could it be that the negative aspects of alcohol consumption outweigh those of sexual activity? While possible, this is more than likel...