Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

I agree that isn't a health related choice. But fighting one battle doesn't mean they have to fight all of them.



I believe alcohol is a far more important battle to be fighting against than tobacco.

It's amazing people's beliefs in regards to alcohol. I had a friend, who was already drunk, rant at me about my use of cannabis because they didn't like the thought of something that takes away your control. Alcohol is so often thought of as a "nothing" drug even though it is probably one of the worst recreational drugs.


I think the big thing with alcohol is it's a lot harder to become addicted to. I don't disagree that alcohol addiction is a problem (and a more damaging social problem in some aspects - a smoker father is probably far less of an issue than an alcoholic father). But I don't agree that going back to prohibition would benefit the situation.


> I think the big thing with alcohol is it's a lot harder to become addicted to.

Supposedly a portion of a hangover is withdrawals (which is why the "hair of the hound that bit you" is effective). However the crux of your point remains true: alcohol withdrawals only last a morning (by my experience) where nicotine withdrawals last a few weeks to months (also personal experience).

The last time I drank was probably 5 days ago and I have no cravings. The last time I smoked was 8 months ago and I have cravings at least once every 2-3 days. Tobacco is much, much, worse.


For heavy regular drinkers, alcohol withdrawals last a lot longer, with some symptoms (such as sleep-cycle disturbance) lasting years: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcohol_withdrawal_syndrome




Consider applying for YC's Spring batch! Applications are open till Feb 11.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: