How did people know they where addicted to tobacco before they knew tobacco was addictive? Did they have a craving and know it was for tobacco? People know now that tobacco is addictive so when they start smoking and feel cravings they know it is for a cigarette. This topic is not just about tobacco, that is just an example… I wondered about this because occasionally i get very weak and tired and dont know whether i need sugar…sleep etc… how did people know they needed a cigarette?
Jonah,
No one needed their first cigarette. Nicotine is not a rational issue. Think about it: We take a piece of paper, put some dried up leaves in it, roll it into a tube, stick it in our mouths, and then light it on fire! There is nothing rational about smoking tobacco, or anything else.
I think jonah speaks of physical instinct and cravings that we can not actually control with our minds Our bodies control these things not us.
Look at our bodies as a type of measuring device for the physical input that it needs as nourishment or craves. Women who are pregnant sometimes crave paint chips or even dust off of furniture. Why? It is an attempt of the body to replace depleting minerals and vitamins. We get these wierd impulses because our body says it wants it and must have it because it is low on it. So if we become addicted to something, physically our body will send craving signals to our mind. Sleep is the same, as is other real needs.
what do physical cravings have to do with philosophy???..by the way whats with your avatar ?..
Hi Kris,
I understood this question, I just never have heard of anyone who had a physical craving for nicotine. The use of tobacco is initially from a social desire, not physical. The craving starts after addiction, not before.
That said, the use of most physically addictive materials begin as a social need, not a physical craving.