In a recent discussion on "Žinių radijo" program "Mokslas suprantamai," Professor V. Vengelienė highlighted the limitations of neuroscience in understanding alcoholism and addiction. She explained that while neuroscience studies the brain and nervous system, it often overlooks the intricate relationship between them, which is crucial for movement and behavior. Without the nervous system, even healthy muscles cannot function, implying that true understanding of addiction requires a deeper exploration of these connections.

The professor pointed out that individuals are prone to addictions because they are essentially 'biorobots' governed by chemical interactions. She argued that our perception of control is an illusion; we believe we are at the center of our decisions when, in fact, our behavioral tendencies are largely dictated by established neural connections. This perspective challenges the typical narrative around personal responsibility and highlights the need for more comprehensive approaches to addiction research.

Additionally, recent statistics from the VDA report a significant decline in alcohol consumption in Lithuania, marking the lowest levels in a decade. This trend raises questions about the societal shifts tied to addiction behaviors and may suggest that broader factors, possibly tied to public health initiatives or changes in social attitudes, are influencing this decline. The professor's insights serve as a reminder of the complexity surrounding addiction and the importance of multi-faceted research approaches.