p of alcoholics , but in only 20 percent of a non-alcoholic group (Peele 50). Unfortunately, after publishing their study in the Journal of the American Medical Association another doctor, Joel Gelernter, M.D., of Yale, examined this allele and discounted Blum and Noble’s research. The combined results were that 18 percent of non-alcoholics, 18 percent of problem drinkers, and 18 percent of severe alcoholics ALL had the allele (Peele 50). This proves that there is no link between this gene and alcoholism. However, this does not disprove Blum and Noble’s theory that genes, or a specific set of genes, could trigger alcoholism. Many researchers believe that it is more plausible to think that genes may affect how people “experience alcohol” (Peele 50). Genetics may make it harder for others to resist the temptation of alcohol (“Research”). Jerome Kagen, Ph.D., a Harvard developmental psychologist, suggests that alcohol is not only more rewarding for some people, but perhaps some people’s neurotransmitters are more activated by alcohol than others (Peele 50). Research is constantly being conducted in order to find what the genetic link to alcoholism may be. The current evidence and research is sketchy; however, almost all experts feel that there is some genetic link, we just haven’t found it yet. Many sources feel that one’s environment also plays a large role in the development of alcoholism (“Research”). However, as scientific researchers continue to work on the Human Genome Project , a better understanding of genetics and genetically linked traits will also emerge.In conclusion, I find that the underage consumption of alcohol is a significant obstacle in American society. This obstacle spans through several generations and is patterned after social acceptance, through unethical marketing, and through the alleged causes behind genetics and heredity. Although thes...
