Classification and forms of inebriety. Historical antecedents of alcoholic typologies

This chapter reviews 39 typological classifications of alcoholics published in the world alcohol literature between 1850 and 1941. After a brief discussion of the concept of typology within the Western intellectual tradition, the typologies are described in terms of classification criteria, cultural context, and historical trends. Four countries (France, Germany, England, and the United States) accounted for all but one of the typologies. Within countries, typological theories tended to be concentrated during specific historical periods, often reflecting prevailing trends in medicine, psychiatry, and clinical practice. Despite a number of common themes, there was little indication of the progressive development of typology theory in a predictable direction. Like their counterparts in contemporary times, these typologies failed to gain widespread acceptance as the basis for theoretical explanations or clinical practice. Rather, their function was more likely to serve as justifications for the disciplinary or policy orientations held by the typologists. It is concluded that unless typologies are formulated on the basis of careful research, sound theory, and clinical relevance, they are likely to be relegated to a similar status as historical artifacts.