[azhenfud]

Along your line of reasoning, one may then conclude there is a "gene" or "disease" as a root cause for propensities to engage in any behavior whatsoever - murder included.

More would agree irresponsible choice is the prime mitigating factor.

"It will amaze you what you might conclude."

Indeed, it is amazing what some have already. Blaming any and every thing EXCEPT personal choice and concluding the "victim" has no culpability will never help.

[Glenn]

More would agree irresponsible choice is the prime mitigating factor.

Especially recovering alcoholics. They do not run from their current or past responsibilities. They do not make excuses to allow for mitigation.

The idea that alcoholism is a disease is not mutually exclusive with personal choice. If you are allergic to peanuts and choose to eat them anyway, you are responsiblie for the outcome.