On Drugs cover image

On Drugs

S3 E2 Did TV teach me to drink “like a man?”

Jan 13, 2025
Todd McGowan and Ryan Angley, co-hosts of the podcast Why Theory?, delve into the cultural significance of alcohol through psychoanalytic lenses. They discuss how Hollywood's portrayal of drinking teaches us societal norms and personal identity, from the glamorization in films to the gritty undertones of film noir. The conversation touches on the subtleties of masculinity and emotional expression surrounding drinking. They also explore the impact of cultural backgrounds on personal drinking experiences, revealing the complex layers of pleasure and addiction.
35:56

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Quick takeaways

  • The podcast explores how cultural representations of alcohol in media shape societal expectations and personal relationships with drinking.
  • It highlights the contrasting experiences individuals have with alcohol based on their cultural backgrounds, affecting perceptions of social interactions and masculinity.

Deep dives

The Complexity of Alcohol in Culture

Alcohol plays a significant role in cultural practices, particularly in country music, where it is often glamorized as a staple of everyday life. Many top songs incorporate references to drinking as a means of celebrating relationships or coping with emotional pain, reflecting how deeply entrenched alcohol is in social interactions. This perspective highlights the dual nature of alcohol in society; it serves both as a substance for celebration and as a mechanism for escapism. Notably, the prevalence of these themes begs the question of how different cultural backgrounds can influence one’s relationship with alcohol.

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