Originally published in 1951, this title was the last book by Hermann Levy who died in 1949 before it was finished. Completed by his friend and fellow academic Rolf P. Lynton, this title looks alcohol as a drink, both economically and socially. Divided into three parts – in brief: what is the drink problem and what are its effects; how widespread is its incidence; and what can be done about it. Today it can be read and enjoyed in its historical context.