Drunkenness

Drunkenness, in its most common usage, is the state of being intoxicated with alcohol (i.e. ethanol) to a sufficient degree to impair mental and motor functioning.

Cultural attitudes

Many societies have cultural stereotypes associated with drunkenness - where the ability to drink vast quantities of alcohol is thought to be worthy of respect. Arguably, such an attitude can be regarded as pathological, leading as it often does to alcoholism. Conversely, a person staying sober or refusing (offered) alcoholic drinks is often associated as 'atmosphere spoiling', one might say that the person is perceived as stubborn or boring and not willing to 'let go'. Therefore, in many public places for alcoholic consumption such as bars, not drinking alcohol can be a socially unacceptable behavior. Nevertheless, an intoxicated person is often seen as not able to control his/her urges or acknowledging limits of drinking and is thus treated with disrespect, related to -- as commonly may be seen in bars -- perceived uncontrollable, annoying, or intrusive behavior.

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The symptoms of drunkenness are generally reported to be positive, at least until it wears off and the associated hangover starts, mostly a result of dehydration and exhaustion.

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The Ancient Greeks believed that putting a piece of amethyst in the glass or in one's mouth while drinking prevented drunkenness, although this usage may be related to a play on words (Ancient Greek: "a-methyst" meaning "not intoxicated").

Related Topics:
Amethyst - Play on words

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Many religions discourage or prohibit alcohol consumption. The Qur'an, or book of Islam, declares that God prohibits the consumption of alcohol by humankind, because of harmful effects for the body, harmful effects for the consumer's life and family, social problems, and distraction from mindfulness of God.

Related Topics:
Qur'an - Islam

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The Catechism of the Roman Catholic Church states in paragraph 2290:

Related Topics:
Catechism - Roman Catholic Church

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The virtue of temperance disposes us to avoid every kind of excess: the abuse of food, alcohol, tobacco, or medicine. Those incur grave guilt who, by drunkenness or a love of speed, endanger their own and others' safety on the road, at sea, or in the air. The church does not mind the use of alcohol if it is done in moderation.

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