Others are quibbling that there are lots of things that can make a person feel excluded due to lack of a shared interest, and alcohol isn't special, and that on

Others are quibbling that there are lots of things that can make a person feel excluded due to lack of a shared interest, and alcohol isn't special, and that one can always get a non-alcoholic drink, etc. But I think alcohol _is_ kind of different: > Most folks don’t understand the effect of peer pressure on those who don’t drink or are in an early stage of recovery from alcohol problems. I think the 'early stage of recovery from alcohol problems' concern is valid, and is not at all on the same level as a person who is disinterested in sportsball having to nod through a conversation about sports. But I also think his post brings out some questions that people should be thinking about with such events: are you making choices which will make your event less successful at achieving your goals? The people planning a network event almost certainly didn't want the author to feel alienated and excluded at a _networking_ event. If a person that helps close a big deal doesn't drink, perhaps opening a bottle of champagne to celebrate doesn't actually make them feel seen, valued and appreciated.