SOB
reportage
A CRITICAL MINDSET TO DRINKING CULTURE The sober phenomenon is rising in popularity among young people. Giving up alcohol might just reveal how surprisingly significant a role it plays in our lives.
16 - VOICES
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he culture around and with alcohol is deeply rooted in many of our cultures and social events. We have a glass of sparkling wine while celebrating important events. We might meet our friends for an after-work beer or relax with one glass of wine after a long day. Is alcohol what you need every time you want to wind down? Why is it such a crucial part of our social gatherings, and are they the same without it? And when is relying on a bottle a harmful coping mechanism instead of regular fun?
Sober curiosity questions an individual’s relationship with alcohol. British writer Ruby Warrington invented the term to encourage critical thinking about the drinking culture and social expectations towards drinking. Sober curiosity is not necessarily the same as going straight edge. A sober curious person explores their relationship with alcohol with a critical mindset but not necessarily cutting alcohol off completely. Also, you don’t have to be an alcohol abuser to take a deeper look at your drinking habits. Even when drinking within healthy limits, we might be even more dependent on alcohol than we realize. Having one glass of wine while meeting a friend doesn’t hurt you but is that
