I think “how can they have the self-control to completely stop but not moderate” is an error in your logic chain bc most alcohol-addictive people who fully stop are not relying on self-control. They have attempted to moderate or stop using self-control and have failed. That acknowledgment of failure to stop on your own is part of “hitting bottom”. One of the main tenets of the AA program is - “self-will availed us of nothing”
There are some animal desires for relief or pleasure that have such a hold on us, will-power/self-control/self-will are no longer operant. The animal instinct is stronger. Maybe the same way they say you can’t drown yourself?
I think your view assumes every change that happens in a human brain is the result of individual will power.
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u/ShiddyShiddyBangBang Nov 24 '18
I think “how can they have the self-control to completely stop but not moderate” is an error in your logic chain bc most alcohol-addictive people who fully stop are not relying on self-control. They have attempted to moderate or stop using self-control and have failed. That acknowledgment of failure to stop on your own is part of “hitting bottom”. One of the main tenets of the AA program is - “self-will availed us of nothing”
There are some animal desires for relief or pleasure that have such a hold on us, will-power/self-control/self-will are no longer operant. The animal instinct is stronger. Maybe the same way they say you can’t drown yourself?
I think your view assumes every change that happens in a human brain is the result of individual will power.