In one sense it is true. You can make a decision not to drink. But if you decide to drink (abuse as some college kids do) and you have the gene you will be more likely to end up with alcoholism . Heredity is not necessarily destiny, but we are foolish to disregard it.
" Research shows that heredity plays an important role in alcoholism. For example, the pattern of brain electrical activity associated with alcoholism appears to be inherited. Other studies show that people with an alcoholic parent have a greater risk of developing the disease than do children of nonalcoholics. Scientists are working to identify the particular genes (chemical units of heredity) that increase risk. Most experts think that many genes are involved and that environment also plays a key role in developing the disease. Environmental influences may include income level, family stability, and community acceptance of drinking. Experts think that the relative importance of various genes and environmental factors may differ among individuals. "
http://www.a2zpsychology.com/a2z%20guide/alcoholism.htm http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/aa18.htm I and my brothers and sisters all have the (supposed) gene. Not one alcoholic amoung the bunch.God is merciful,no?