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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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Conversation with a Harvard Expert

Thursday, September 1, 2011

By Jerry Avorn

A critic of the pharmaceutical industry, Avorn believes companies are now somewhat more cautious, primarily because the FDA has become more vigilant.

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Upcoming Debates

Does Alcoholics Anonymous Work?

With Dan Griffin, Adi Jaffe

10:00 AM | Friday, January 3, 2025

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…

Does Alcoholics Anonymous Work?

With Dan Griffin, Adi Jaffe

10:00 AM | Friday, January 3, 2025

Could Longevity Science Extend Your Health Span By Decades? Should the Government Fund It?

With Peter Diamandis, Ezekiel J. Emanuel

10:00 AM | Friday, December 27, 2024

How long would you like to live, and could science and technology make it possible? Longevity science aims to extend our healthy years through advancements in CRISPR, cellular reprogramming, and drug development. While private companies and philanthropists invest heavily in these innovations, should the government be responsible for funding these efforts? Those who say yes to government funding say that longevity research could revolutionize public health, keep aging populations productive in the workforce, and reduce the economic burden of age-related…

Could Longevity Science Extend Your Health Span By Decades? Should the Government Fund It?

With Peter Diamandis, Ezekiel J. Emanuel

10:00 AM | Friday, December 27, 2024

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Features

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Conversation with a Harvard Expert

Upcoming Debates

Does Alcoholics Anonymous Work?

Does Alcoholics Anonymous Work?

Could Longevity Science Extend Your Health Span By Decades? Should the Government Fund It?

Could Longevity Science Extend Your Health Span By Decades? Should the Government Fund It?

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