Originally Posted by aussie89

With all due respect, the vast majority of people who drink are not alcoholics and can control their drinking. It is the minority - 5% to 10% of the population who cannot drink without exceeding a level which classes them as an alcoholic.

I think to state that 'controlled drinking never works in the long term' is just as naive as stating 'controlled drinking works well for most people'.

Every person is different - every situation is different - hard and fast rules applied to every member of society is counterproductive to living a healthy lifestyle.

That's just my opinion and I admit I am probably in the wrong forum.