Part 10/13:
Throughout history, alcohol has served not only as a recreational substance but also as a social lubricant and spiritual tool. Ancient rituals often involved communal drinking, where moderation was enforced through social customs like sharing rounds and waiting for others to finish. These practices regulated consumption and prevented overindulgence, maintaining social cohesion.
However, the advent of concentrated spirits changed this dynamic, making alcohol more potent and accessible for private consumption. This shift introduced new risks and potential health dangers, as people could now consume dangerously high levels of alcohol in isolation—a stark contrast to traditional, communal drinking rituals.