The fact that most people are given the choice between alcohol and nothing causes far more harm than it prevents in the Western world. Most people, if given the

The fact that most people are given the choice between alcohol and nothing causes far more harm than it prevents in the Western world. Most people, if given the option, would seek out substances that work with their health and life and lifestyle. And many would choose nothing. But our alcohol-only system is the worst of all worlds. It creates a socially engineered critical mass of drinkers that exerts tremendous peer pressure to drink throughout all aspects of life. And it prevents people from exploring other substances, many of which are far less detrimental to personal and public health than alcohol, and many of which are better suited to purposes like stress relief.