It would, perhaps, be worth while for the advocates of temperance to study the causes which have practically eliminated drunkenness from the most intelligent classes of men.
Education undoubtedly is the greatest factor.
In nearly all the public schools now the evil effects of alcohol are taught.
These evil effects are taught, not in a lackadaisical way, with sentiment or religious duty as a basis. They are taught as FACTS.
Facts appeal to the mind, and they persist in their effect in later life, when moral suasion and religious appeals are forgotten.
Teach every child that alcohol destroys his chances of success, impairs his muscular efficiency, inflames the substance of the brain and prevents development—MAKE HIM FEEL THAT A DRINKING MAN IS A SECOND-CLASS MAN, AND YOU WILL HAVE DONE MUCH TO DESTROY THE DRUNKENNESS OF THE FUTURE. ——
As a matter of fact, drunkenness, like dirt, is mainly an accompaniment of poverty and a sad, hopeless life.
For the man or woman given to drinking, when the troubles of life are no longer to be borne, some relief must be had.
Make the lives of human beings more comfortable, make good food more plentiful, spread education—and you will solve the problem of excessive drinking.