Why Do People Drink? The Science and Culture Behind Alcohol

As poet Charles Bukowski once wrote, “If something bad happens you drink in an attempt to forget; if something good happens you drink in order to celebrate; and if nothing happens you drink to make something happen.” People drink for countless reasons, but whether alcohol actually delivers what they're looking for is another matter entirely. Despite benefits that are often short-lived, alcohol maintains a powerful grip on humanity—and has for centuries. So why do people drink? And why do they enjoy getting drunk, even when it clearly doesn't serve their long-term well-being? Part of the answer lies in science; another part lies in cultural influence.

A Boozy History

From weddings and barbecues to simple dinners at home, alcohol often takes center stage. This attraction to alcoholic beverages goes back thousands of years. But what makes it so appealing?

The story of alcohol is as old as civilization. Archaeologists believe our ancestors discovered fermentation by accident—perhaps when fruit or grains were left to rot in a container of water. This happy accident quickly caught on as people experienced the effects of this "magical" brew. Imagine the delight of those early humans when a sip of fermented fruit made their prehistoric worries fade away.

From the ancient Sumerians and Egyptians brewing beer to the Greeks and Romans who considered wine a dietary staple, alcohol has flowed through human history for millennia.

“Some Dance To Remember, Some Dance To Forget”

When you sip an alcoholic drink, ethanol—the active ingredient—enters your bloodstream and travels to your brain. There, it taps into the brain’s reward system, releasing feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine. The result? A warm, fuzzy feeling, hearty laughter, and lowered inhibitions that help you relax and feel more sociable. It’s carefree euphoria on demand—no wonder it can become irresistible!

The “hook” that keeps people coming back to alcohol varies. Some are drawn to its stimulating qualities, while others use it mainly to relax. Some drink for inspiration; others drink to forget. It’s also common to experience both impulses, depending on the situation.

Why Do People Like Getting Drunk (Even When It Causes Problems)?

No matter the motivation, ongoing alcohol use often comes with a plot twist. Over time, the brain’s relationship with alcohol can become rocky. You might start relying on it to feel at ease, relieve stress, or socialize—and that’s where problems can begin.

The main issue is tolerance: you need more alcohol to experience the same euphoric effect. With regular drinking, the brain adjusts by lowering natural levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine. As a result, you need more and more alcohol to feel the same effect—and that effect becomes harder to reach. With heavy use, the pleasure fades, and you may end up drinking just to feel “normal.”

Liquid Courage in a Glass

It’s not just biology that draws us to alcohol—social factors play a big role too. Humans are social creatures. We love gatherings and parties, and alcohol often takes a starring role. Why? Drinking can help us relax and lower our guard, making social interactions feel smoother and easier.

However, leaning on alcohol as a social lubricant can be a slippery slope. Like any shortcut, it may feel great in the moment but leave you feeling worse later on.

Breaking Free From Alcohol's Allure

If you're thinking about changing your relationship with alcohol—whether that means cutting back or quitting—here are some steps to help you along the way:

• Mindful drinking. Pay attention to when and why you're drinking. Are you reaching for a glass out of habit, stress, or social pressure? Recognizing your triggers is the first step toward change.
• Alternative drinks. Stock your fridge with non-alcoholic options like herbal teas, sparkling water, or alcohol-free beers. They can be just as satisfying!
• Find new relaxation strategies. If you use alcohol to unwind, try yoga, meditation, reading, or a walk in the park as your new “happy hour.”
• Stay social, sans alcohol. Don’t give up your social life—just shift the focus. Try movie nights, hiking trips, or cooking classes. You might create even more memorable moments without a drink in hand.

The journey toward change has its ups and downs, but with determination and the right strategies, you can write a healthier, happier ending. Remember, the goal isn’t just to survive—it’s to thrive.