[Socio-anthropology of the alcoholization process in Latin America, 1970-1980 (1)]

A review is made of the bibliographical production on the process of alcoholization that has been generated from History and Anthropology in Latin America during seventies. This revision is undertaken on the basis of a model which attempts a theoretical and methodological systematization of that production. Such a model presupposes a review for each of the areas of knowledge mentioned before: a) the definition of the problem, b) the aetiological conceptions, c) the most usually found indicators and variables, d) the functions, e) the consequences, f) the social groups and strata, g) solutions, h) dominant theoretical outlooks, i) methodologies and techniques, j) areas most commonly under research, k) problem areas not under research. The revision gives to rise them idea that both areas of knowledge consider alcohol as an "instrument" or "tool", as a mediator; that the perception of the process of alcoholization--especially in anthropological works--is not seen negatively, but its functions are emphasized, especially those which are recognized as "integrative" ones. In spite of the fact that anthropological and historical production adds up to about 30% of total production between 1960 and 1980, it has had a very low weight in the strategics that medical practice, psychiatry and psychology have devised towards alcoholism.