Throughout history humans have engaged in practices that alter their psychological state. There are many reasons why people wish to change their mental and emotional status. It is not hard to imagine the rationale for the very first alcohol-induced experience--it arose from curiosity. Perhaps one of our ancestors ate some fermenting fruit and felt a pleasant sensation that piqued his curiosity. Curiosity is still a prevalent reason for alcohol consumption today. We are bombarded with messages promoting alcohol use, and we are curious to find out just what it feels like to consume alcohol.