Originally Posted by
polaris 
Well not to split hair over semantics, but "NO" choice can be problematic and its understandable why people (especially non addicts) may take issue with that terminology...and ultimately just isnt true. Now something along the lines of "OVERWHELMING/INSIDIOUS/ALL-CONSUMING compulsion" is far more sensible I feel.
Polaris, this is well-stated.
"OVERWHELMING/INSIDIOUS/ALL-CONSUMING compulsion" doesn't roll off the tongue as easily as Powerless, but your description is probably more accurate.
The semantics of "Powerless over alcohol" are just that, semantics.
People who can have a couple drinks and quit are not on Sober Recovery looking for a solution. They aren't typing "alcoholism" into their browser bar. Obviously those of us with a drinking problem have lost the power to stop at two. Or one. We are, in fact, powerless.
So, arguing semantics is just...I don't know...like cutting the lawn with nail clippers.
Language isn't our issue, life and death drinking is.