Alcoholism

Press, Volume XCVI, Issue 28450, 3 December 1957, Page 3

Alcoholism

Sir.—lt would, writes M. G Davies, be illogical to remove temptation from a lustful man. Well, it might be. But then the logic of actions must be judged by reference to the results we intend or can expect as their consequences. Now, regarding this disease diagnosed as depleted nerves. What illogicality could there be in employing whatever reasonable means for removing the cause—chronic presence of alcohol in the system might have something to do with this—that one might suppose could help towards this end? Perhaps she sees in it an unworthy competition with some sort of moral effort whose results alone she would count as acceptable.—Yours, etc., R.S. December 1, 1957.

Sir, —A by-gone excuse for the inebriate was “drowning of sorrow.” With the advent of psychology, Psychiatry, marriage guidance, and various clinics, plus the many social securities and other institutions designed for the relief of causes of sorrow, many reasons for it may have diminished. Scientists collecting statistics of types of workmen falling under the influence of alcohol disclosed certain tendencies. Some diseases may be caused and aggravated by surroundings: some influenced by heritage. If disease includes alcoholism, should not research be made into prevention of known aggravating or contributing causes in industrial or occupational conditions? Protection of the body from injury is undertaken, protection of the eyes enforced. What of the nose and ears? Some countries are more advanced than New Zealand in these matters. Why "not be prepared to learn, taking a leaf out of other investigators’ books and reducing causes of offence?—Yours. etc., ADVANCES. December 2, 1957.