Nicely put, Deion. Addiction is definitely real, and G-d is the Source by which it can be bested. Addiction is also one of those things that hammers home that we are not mere individuals, as we would be if "selfism" were correct, but part of community. Most people who overcome addiction do so with assistance, whether from one of the 12 step programs you mentions, genuine Aristotelian friendship, the support of a spouse, or of course the Church. Addiction may be thought of as something that an individual cannot choose against, but as you note that does not mean that the addict has no choices. I understand Hitchens' concern, but think you are right in seeing how the existence of addiction does actually point us to a more Christian understanding of the world and our place in it.
Loved the article Deion! Best to share it to Mr. Hitchens and hopefully get a chance to see what he thinks of your understanding of addiction :)
Nicely put, Deion. Addiction is definitely real, and G-d is the Source by which it can be bested. Addiction is also one of those things that hammers home that we are not mere individuals, as we would be if "selfism" were correct, but part of community. Most people who overcome addiction do so with assistance, whether from one of the 12 step programs you mentions, genuine Aristotelian friendship, the support of a spouse, or of course the Church. Addiction may be thought of as something that an individual cannot choose against, but as you note that does not mean that the addict has no choices. I understand Hitchens' concern, but think you are right in seeing how the existence of addiction does actually point us to a more Christian understanding of the world and our place in it.