Eugene Raikhel, “Governing Habits: Treating Alcoholism in the Post-Soviet Clinic” (Cornell UP, 2016)

Eugene Raikhel, “Governing Habits: Treating Alcoholism in the Post-Soviet Clinic” (Cornell UP, 2016)

Ever wondered how alcoholism treatment varies across different cultures? In this intriguing episode of 'New Books in Drugs, Addiction and Recovery', host Marshall Poe chats with Eugene Raikhel about his book, 'Governing Habits: Treating Alcoholism in the Post-Soviet Clinic'. Raikhel, an anthropologist, dives deep into the unique world of narcology – the Soviet approach to diagnosing and treating addiction.

This conversation unravels how alcoholism is perceived and managed differently in Russia compared to the U.S., shedding light on the cultural nuances that shape these treatments. Raikhel's book explores the evolution of narcology from Soviet times to the present day, highlighting how treatments were heavily influenced by Pavlovian psychology and hypnotic suggestion therapies. The episode paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by Soviet and post-Soviet narcologists, who were constantly striving to legitimize their methods.

These historical insights provide a fascinating backdrop to understanding the ongoing struggles within the field. One of the most captivating parts of the discussion is the arrival of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in Russia. Raikhel explains how AA is being integrated into Russian culture, creating a unique blend of traditional and new-age treatment approaches. This episode offers a rich tapestry of historical context, cultural differences, and the persistent efforts to tackle alcoholism in a changing society.

Whether you're a student, a professional in addiction recovery, or simply curious about how different societies handle addiction, this episode is a must-listen. It’s not just about the science; it’s about understanding the human and cultural elements that influence treatment practices. Tune in to get a deeper understanding of how alcoholism is treated beyond your own backyard.