Alcoholic Thinking: Language, Culture, and Belief in Alcoholics Anonymous [Hardcover]

Danny M. Wilcox (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0275960498 | ISBN-13: 978-0275960490 | Publication Date: March 30, 1998

Based on long-term observation of Alcoholics Anonymous, the author focuses on cultural rather than personal causes of drug dependence. The author also discusses how the symbolic action of AA language and culture is the key to recovery. This study yields critical information about the development and practice of alcoholism and other drug dependence. Through the shared linguistic and cultural interaction of AA, the U.S. cultural ideology that emphasizes individualism, personal achievement, self-control, and self-reliance is shown to result in conflict; thus the gap between the perceived ideal and reality intensifies feelings of separation, alienation, and isolation leading to dependency. This detailed ethnographic narrative of Alcoholics Anonymous is based on three years of participant observation. The study suggests that anyone can be victimized by alcoholic thinking. Anthropologists, sociologists, psychologists, health care and professional social services organizations will be interested in this book.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Useful as the basis for an anthropology case study course, as an addition to a substance abuse seminar, or for professionals seeking to expand their understanding of the cultural context of alcoholism.”–Choice

About the Author

DANNY M. WILCOX is Adjunct Professor of Anthropology, Institute of Anthropology, School of Community Service at the University of North Texas.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 160 pages
• Publisher: Praeger Publishers (March 30, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0275960498
• ISBN-13: 978-0275960490
• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.4 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,636,713 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Written from inside looking out - insightful and enlightened, June 5, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Alcoholic Thinking: Language, Culture, and Belief in Alcoholics Anonymous (Hardcover)

Obviously written for those in the anthropolgy field, Alcoholic Thinking is also accessible to the average person with an interest in the subject. Written in thesis format, it is well researched and documented. My favorite sections describe AA meetings, the dogma and symbols of the organization. The author's stuggle with his own dependence makes the book compelling reading. Favorite line: You can't keep doing the same things and expect different results.