The collective beast has zero effect on my sobriety. I recognize it, separate from it, and accept it, just as I do with my particular beast. It has even less ability to make me drink than does my own. It is saddening though.
One aspect of the collective beast I have noticed is within a group of people that are assembled for any other reason than alcohol. Look at the reaction when someone mentions stopping at a bar afterwards, or the effects of tequila, or mimosas for breakfast, the pros and cons of swim-up bars, or meeting for drinks before the next gathering. There is a purring awakening within the group that happens as the collective beast perks up. From the AVRT point of view, it's kinda creepy.
Here I try to be steadfast in my message that we do, each of us, have the power within us to quit drinking, and to quit drinking for good.