now drunkenness, considered among other vices, has always seemed to me gross and brutish. in others our minds play a larger part; and there are some vices which have something or other magnanimous about them, if that is the right word. there are some which are intermingled with learning, diligence, valour, prudence, skill and finesse: drunkenness is all body and earth. moreover the grossest nation of our day is alone in honouring it. other vices harm our intellect: this one overthrows it

michel de montaigne, on drunkenness