Where Is the Gene Disposition for “Lack of Control”, Which Has Now Become a “disease”?
Question by HappyNow…: Where is the gene disposition for “lack of control”, which has now become a “disease”?
I have heard that alcoholism is a disease, or drug abuse, or molesting children, etc.
We are now as a PC society placing blame on virtually everything as a genetic predisposition…you know, you got diabetes because of that gene, not because you have been pounding 2 liters of coke everyday for the past 30 years…or I am an alcohlic because of that gene, not because 1-2 drinks will suffice, but I have to drink a case today.
If you got the self-control to stop at the light when it turns red, what’s the predisposition to passing the buck here? Or is taking responsibility something that went out of style…
Best answer:
Answer by Jay W
There is no simple cause-and-effect explanation for alcoholism. Traditionally, in society and the law, alcohol abuse has been and still is considered personal responsibility, and we are accountable both for it and its consequences fully.
On the other hand, there has been a fair (but not utterly convincing) amount of evidence to suggest in many cases of alcoholism, there is a predisposition that cannot be fully explained by environmental or psychologic factors. This implies the connection is biologic in nature.
This evidence has been mistakenly used as a cause-and-effect argument. unfortunately, the majority of cases of alcoholism are probably not related to this biologic predisposition, and not all people with this predisposition or risk factor becomes an alcoholic. And, again, there is only a fair amount of information this predisposition exists–it is not utterly certain.
In addition, the word “predisposition” by definition denies a cause-and-effect relationship. However, put it together with other factors, such as psychologic and environmental factors, and you have at least a reasonable explanation for why some people are alcoholics.
However, explanation and excuse are not the same thing, and it is up to society to decide what to do with this information in dealing with our members who abuse alcohol. unfortunately, American society today has demonstrated a consistent and unsophisticated approach to uncertainty and judgment.
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