The etymology of the word “addiction” is quite interesting. De facto today, any addiction is basically looked at with disapproving eyes. A kind of sickness. In the past, though, it had other significations, not half as negative.
The word “addiction” comes from the Latin word, addicere, which has four distinct meanings, the first of which is: to be in favour of. Other definitions include to give support to, to devote, yield, sacrifice, abandon or enslave to. It can also mean to sentence or condemn. It’s worth noting that it held a positive spin when it referred to one’s religious affiliation.
It does seem like, today, there are many people afflicted with malevolent addictions, such as to opiates, cigarettes, screens, gambling and, I’d add, news. To each of these, there’s an inherent business model. But does addiction always have to be bad? Maybe your addiction is a sign, trying to tell you something about yourself? What might a dependency reveal? Is there a future world where we might appropriately rehabilitate the word “addiction”?
In today’s world, to what extent do you think it’s OK to be addicted to love, working out, thrills or meaningful conversations? Or, for the crazy few, an addiction to padel tennis (my absolutely favorite activity) to which I willingly submit.
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I am aware that this is a sensitive topic. I'm putting it on the table purposefully, in the hopes that we can take an honest look at how we view words and concepts that may otherwise trigger us. I am personally aware of the dangers of addiction (myself and around me). Addiction can be absolutely devastating. But I want to allow us to discuss the concept in a different context. Looking beyond the pain associated with life-changing addictions, but under a wider definition, to review how this word "addiction" can have other meanings. Am I wrong?
Many thanks for your comment Denise. Glad my post raised an eyebrow! :) The entire topic of religion will certainly be relevant in looking at how we entertain conversations going forward. Let's hear for passionate addictions... that stimulate and vivify us! As for rehabilitating meaningful conversation, I'm doing my utmost to do so! Keep 'em coming!
I am aware that this is a sensitive topic. I'm putting it on the table purposefully, in the hopes that we can take an honest look at how we view words and concepts that may otherwise trigger us. I am personally aware of the dangers of addiction (myself and around me). Addiction can be absolutely devastating. But I want to allow us to discuss the concept in a different context. Looking beyond the pain associated with life-changing addictions, but under a wider definition, to review how this word "addiction" can have other meanings. Am I wrong?
Many thanks for your comment Denise. Glad my post raised an eyebrow! :) The entire topic of religion will certainly be relevant in looking at how we entertain conversations going forward. Let's hear for passionate addictions... that stimulate and vivify us! As for rehabilitating meaningful conversation, I'm doing my utmost to do so! Keep 'em coming!