Quote Originally Posted by Eric C. View Post
Blah, blah...
Ok, there are about 100 studies all indicating that this system works, however silly it may seem. There are none indicating the opposite.

Just to add one point to the discussion, but could this be because of the cold in Russia, Sweden, etc? Of course we have maaaaaany problems with alcoholism in Brazil and South America, but I think (I'm not sure) that it's not such a huge problem like here in Russia and nothern countries. We don't hear the same about Italy (warmer country also), for example.
Do you guys think there's a connection with the cold? Or only with the mentality of the people?
Yes, most people are of this opinion because it's the cold countries that have the biggest problem with this.

Also the DARK countries, it gets very dark in the winter in Scandinavia and in large parts of Russia.

I don't know though - personally I hit the chocolate in the dark winter nights, not the alcohol.
The worst problems with alcohol are among native people in the arctic area, particularly eskimos in Greenland. Also in Alaska, I've read, and as we know, in Russia..

Eskimos have different metabolism and get addicted faster, and get more sick from alcohol too. Also the people in Northern Scandinavia. It's only traditional Christianity and really strict control of the alcohol that's proven useful, and there is quite a big problem with alcoholism.

These people don't drink socially with dinner, or appreciate the taste. It's just the traditional spirit, or vodka that they drink.
It absolutely ruins their lives.

The French and Italians etc have a different culture and they drink wine, not stronger drinks.

I am willing to put up with a bit of inconvenience to save thousands of families and individuals. If the problems in Russia, Alaska, Greenland etc are as bad as I have read, then that's what we can excpect if we give up this system.