"the bible says that you cannot take anything that alters your behavior or your body" I think most people wouldn't take such an interpretation of the Bible, bu

"the bible says that you cannot take anything that alters your behavior or your body" I think most people wouldn't take such an interpretation of the Bible, but even if you did, your explanation doesn't line up with current societal mores. There are many mind and body altering substances that are not only tolerated, but celebrated. Almost all of modern Western medicine is based on introducing substances or therapies to the body that alter the mind or body. Everything from cold medicine to antibiotics alters the body. There are also numerous mind-altering substances used, such as narcotics, anesthetics, anti-psychotics, and anti-depressants. All of these are fully embraced by the vast majority of people, as well as the medical establishment. But even if we stay away from medicine, there are plenty of examples of accepted mind-altering recreational substances. Nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol are the most obvious, but there are many other less severe substances (look at the ingredients on some energy drinks). By and large, the use of all of these substances is accepted. If it were simply the case that cultural history prevented society from accepting mind-altering substances, none of the above would be accepted. The explanation must be more complicated.