Alcoholism... It's a strong word!

I generally enjoy a tipple or two each night... As do many people. It makes me wonder who actually thinks up the guidelines for drinking, I'm not an alcoholic... And I stress that point highly. However, under the eyes of the government and there tick lists and clipboards... I probably am a chronic alcoholic. So I beg the question, what really is classed as an alcoholic? Oooo, get me questioning society! I'll be doing a doctorate in philosophy before you know it!