Defiance Recovery

Alcohol supporters argue that alcohol is a legal product and that adults have the right to choose whether or not they want to drink. They claim we infringe on personal liberties and freedom of consumption.

DR: We aren’t advocating for prohibition or restriction of alcohol; we’re advocating for informed choices. Drinking culture often pressures people into harmful habits, making it harder to choose not to drink. Abstaining from alcohol is no weirder or more fanatical than abstaining from smoking meth or slamming heroin — it's simply a valid, healthy choice that should be normalized.

Alcohol has deep cultural significance in many societies. Supporters argue that we're attacking long-standing traditions, celebrations, and rituals where alcohol plays a prominent role.

DR: If alcohol were relegated to ceremonies, like ayahuasca, we wouldn't even have this conversation. Also, we're not taking away anyone's history. Fortunately, cultures evolve. While alcohol may be a part of social customs, society can update its practices when evidence shows that those customs are harmful. We're simply promoting a healthier future, not erasing cultural history. We here honor our ancestors by not repeating harmful behaviors of their past.

Supporters emphasize the significant contribution of the alcohol industry to the economy, including jobs, tax revenues, and the hospitality sector. Promoting abstention from alcohol is seen as a threat to this economic engine.

DR: That's limited thinking. There’s a huge, untapped market for activities and products that don’t revolve around alcohol, including industries that thrive in an economy less dependent on alcohol consumption—promoting new, healthy opportunities for entertainment and connection. Also, considering how much is spent on remedying alcohol-related incidents and deaths, society could reinvest in areas that improve the lives of millions.

The alcohol industry often promotes the idea of "responsible drinking" rather than abstinence. Supporters argue that Renegade Recovery promotes an extreme position that doesn't align with moderate consumption guidelines recommended by health experts.

DR: While some advocate for "responsible drinking," alcohol remains a toxin, even in small amounts. Further, "moderation" as a balanced approach, is nonexistent when society glamorizes alcohol far beyond what's responsible or safe. Most marketing is geared towards young people whose brains are not yet fully developed, causing premature health issues, death, and cognitive impairments. Instead, we offer the full range of options, including the healthy one—abstention.

Studies show some health benefits of alcohol in small amounts, such as red wine for heart health, which paints our stance as alarmist and one-sided.

DR: We've got studies too. The health benefits of alcohol are highly contested and many experts now argue that there’s no truly safe amount of alcohol. Regardless, all research shows that moderate drinking still carries risks and that healthier alternatives (like exercise or diet changes) are better options for long-term wellness.

Supporters claim our messaging contributes to the stigmatization of drinkers, making people feel guilty or ashamed for engaging in legal behavior.

DR: Society already uses shame and guilt to discourage a range of harmful behaviors, from smoking to excessive junk food consumption. We're arguing that drinking culture has become so normalized that it uses shame in reverse—to pressure people into drinking. We’re simply shifting the stigma back to where it belongs: on behaviors that harm individuals and society.