A few weeks ago I posted what I called A Really Good Graphic, but at the time I really didn’t know who had produced this spot-on analysis on the progressive disease of alcoholism. A chance online encounter tonight brought me the answer to the question. The chart in question is called the Jellinek Curve, created by E.M Jellinek (1890-1963).
Mr. Jellinek was an important figure in the research of alcohol and addiction in the post-prohibition era. Known as “Bunky” by his close friends, Mr. Jellinek is probably best known as the modern father of the disease concept of alcoholism. His work is still well known and respected with the Jellinek Memorial Reward being rewarded every year for important accomplishments made in the study of alcoholism. More often than not, his work is praised yet his credentials are questioned.
Regardless of his academic pedigree which I could care less about, I doubt any addict or alcoholic can follow the Jellinek Curve without realizing its authenticity.
