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  - Does Alcoholics Anonymous…
    
    Dry January has become increasingly popular, practiced by a quarter of Americans last year, and provides individuals a collegial and open path for reconsidering their alcohol consumption. For almost two million people worldwide who have committed to staying sober for a lifetime, the group known as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and its 12-step plan has been a prominent lifeline. But is it the best approach for curbing alcoholism, and does it address its root causes? Those who say AA is invaluable emphasize the merits of its peer-driven, community-based approach. They also point out that membership is free, only requiring a desire to stop drinking. Opportunities for fellowship can be found nearly anywhere, even in communities with limited access to healthcare or treatment facilities. Those who say there might be a better way to sobriety argue that AA’s long-term success rates vary widely. They also note equity issues and note concerns with the program’s focus on abstinence rather than moderation. They say other therapies and interventions, such as harm reduction therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, would help those who may not succeed in the program. Now with this background and in Dry January 2025, we debate the question: Does AA Work?
    
    Friday, January 3, 2025
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Joel Cohen

Attorney and Founder of TalksOnLaw

Joel Cohen is an attorney, legal commentator, and the founder of the legal education website TalksOnLaw, where both attorneys and the general public can gain a better understanding of complex legal concepts for free. At TalksOnLaw, Cohen has helped to create and has been featured in some of the leading online educational resources on topics related to free speech, incitement of violence, and incitement of insurrection. These resources have featured renowned experts from organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and leading law professors. Through these collaborations, Joel has helped facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of free speech rights, providing invaluable insights into the boundaries of the First Amendment. Joel has written on topics related to law for publications including the American Bar Association, Slate, and Huffington Post. Prior to starting TalksOnLaw, Cohen worked as a corporate associate at the law firm, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom. He attended the Duke University School of Law.

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