Twelfth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

The principles of humility, honesty, and service are the principles on which the “Alcoholics Anonymous” (AA) organization is based on. We believe these principles are the reason it has succeeded and continues to expand on a global scale. These principles, we argue, makes AA a functional equivalent of religion in a Durkheimian (1913) sense. Thus, we argue, the purpose of the organization is to enable its members to live life “on life’s terms” rather than a simple method for alcohol recovery (Alcoholics Anonymous, 1976). Alcoholics Anonymous allows no associated with any known religion, but spirituality, pervades its rituals, symbols, and cultic activities. AA members are enjoined to freely admit their faults (honesty), accept the reality of life (humility), and devote themselves to service of others. AA is a unique “religion” in that it promises no significant self-improvement or future rewards; the ability to live life on life’s terms on a daily basis is the only stated, realized, and celebrated goal of the organization.