Cultural evolution of addiction

According to the contemporary biomedical approach, addiction is defined as the compulsive use of substances or engagement in behaviors despite harmful consequences.It is characterized by a preoccupation with a substance or behavior, challenges in controlling or restricting usage, and the emergence of unpleasant feelings when access is interfered with or thwarted.Behaviors related to daily living, such as eating, shopping, engaging in sexual activities, and gambling, are increasingly being recognized and regarded as addictive tendencies, or "use disorders."With advances in science and technology, the diagnosis and management of psychiatric disorders are adapting and evolving.A paradigm shift in psychiatry and neuroscience is also attributable to our understanding of addiction.Instead of relying on contradictory theories and research, the answer to the question "What causes addiction?"seems to arise from a variety of sources, including genetics, social environment, developmental variables, and life events.However, this paper aims to provide a perspective that will enrich our understanding of addiction by addressing the "use of psychoactive substances" in a broader sense within human cultural history, beyond the transformation of the scientific paradigm.