Blog post #3

In pages 75-100 of River Town, Hessler talks about alcohol consumption in China. Apparently consuming alcohol and calling yourself an "alcoholic" is a "ritual". I find that hard to understand, because it is being forced. Being an alcoholic is an actual disease and is not something to be proud of. As Hessler describe the bizarre "ritual", he goes on to tell how most people are light weights and "were genetically unable to become alcoholics", yet they still claim to be alcoholics. Also, since Hessler and Adam's alcohol tolerance were much higher than the Chinese, they gained immediate respect. They were considered to be alcoholics in China and probably just casual drinkers in America. I find that to be a little extreme and offensive just because the Chinese have a lower tolerance. I wonder what a real alcoholic would be considered in China.. I’m sure they are not trying to reach a higher status and gain more respect just by drinking; race and culture does not matter, it is just a serious addiction.