In this episode, we journey back to ancient Greece and Rome to explore how people of the time explained the age-old phenomenon of drunkenness. Drawing from a fascinating article, we unpack three prevailing theories: the “human cause” (linked to individual physiology), the “wine cause” (blaming the properties of wine itself), and the “divine cause,” which credited Dionysus, the god of wine, for its intoxicating effects.

We’ll dive into the writings of Aristotle, Plato, Galen, and Pliny the Elder, examining how their thoughts on drunkenness mirrored the scientific and religious beliefs of their eras. Ultimately, we’ll explore why the divine cause—the intervention of Dionysus—was so widely accepted as a satisfying explanation for the unpredictable effects of wine. Whether you’re interested in ancient philosophy, history, or the cultural roots of wine, this episode offers a fascinating look into how ancient minds grappled with intoxication.

Learn More, Read The Original Paper: https://www.academia.edu/4170928/Daimon_Drink_Ancient_Greek_and_Roman_Explanations_of_Drunkenness