Are AA's 12 Traditions Legal? A Deep Dive on Safe Recovery
We were resolved to admit nobody to aa, but that hypothetically class of people we termed pure alcoholics.
Ever wondered if the 12 traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous are more than just guidelines? This episode of Safe Recovery brings together host Monica Richardson and a group of bloggers to tackle this very question. They dive into whether these traditions are actual laws that could potentially override the U.S. Constitution.
But that's not all—they also explore the origins of these traditions, including the intriguing tidbit that Bill Wilson, AA's co-founder, may have written them while experimenting with LSD to combat his own struggles with alcoholism and depression. The conversation doesn't stop there. The panel scrutinizes the responsibilities of AA board members and trustees, questioning whether they are legally accountable for protecting members of the society.
The debate heats up as they discuss how far the right to anonymity should go, especially when it comes to covering up criminal behavior within AA meetings. One of the standout moments is the discussion on the disease theory of addiction and its flaws. The episode wraps up by promoting alternative recovery programs like Smart Recovery and Rational Recovery, emphasizing empowerment over powerlessness.
If you're curious about the legalities behind AA's traditions or looking for alternative paths to recovery, this episode is a must-listen.