> My hypothesis is that alcohol supports a rapid transition from work to relaxation In cultures that do not drink alcohol, we gather up around non-alcoholic dr

> My hypothesis is that alcohol supports a rapid transition from work to relaxation In cultures that do not drink alcohol, we gather up around non-alcoholic drinks like tea (especially more involved brews like Karak or Kashmiri), and that in itself is relaxing, regardless of the caffeine content of the drink. It's mostly about the setting and atmosphere. Time and time again, studies and anecdotes are showing the destructive power of alcohol on so many different levels, from individual health to society.