This reminds me of something a friend once told me. This was about 10 years ago, he was a commander for the navy at the time. In the navy, while at sea, you ar

This reminds me of something a friend once told me. This was about 10 years ago, he was a commander for the navy at the time. In the navy, while at sea, you are expected to drink during social events. Alcohol is considered the 'social engine' of the ship. Now I must disclaim that obviously the crew wasn't forced to drink. Those on guard, or who had any medical, religious or other objections were dismissed. And naturally they have very strict limits, as getting intoxicated on board of a operational warship would be very dangerous. But, with moderate use, alcohol was (at least back then) viewed as an efficient method to prevent stress and mutiny among the crew. It probably is still today.