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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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Phillip Blond

English political philosopher and director of the ResPublica think tank

Blond founded ResPublica in 2009 and is an academic, journalist, and author. Prior to entering politics and public policy, he was a senior lecturer in theology and philosophy, teaching at the Universities of Exeter and Cumbria. He has written extensively in the British and foreign press, including The Guardian, The Independent, The Observer, the Financial Times, Prospect, the New Statesman, and The New York Times.

Debates Featuring Phillip Blond

Long Live The British Monarchy?

With Phillip Blond, Graham Smith

September 16, 2022

For nearly three-quarters of a century, Queen Elizabeth II sat on high as Britain’s monarch. With her death, however, new political momentum is building that casts fresh doubts about the future of the British Crown. Several former British colonies, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Jamaica, have debated severing ties, while Republican campaigners in Britain now see opportunity to reassess what it means to have a monarchy without offending a popular queen. King Charles III is far less beloved. And…

Long Live The British Monarchy?

For nearly three-quarters of a century, Queen Elizabeth II sat on high as Britain’s monarch. With her death, however, new political momentum is building that casts fresh doubts about the future of the British Crown.…

With Phillip Blond, Graham Smith

September 16, 2022

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