Jellinek, E. M. (1890–1963)

Following repeal of the National Prohibition Act, the United States began the shift from a moral to a scientific approach to alcohol problems, emphasizing a disease concept of alcoholism and treatment for alcoholics. E. M. Jellinek was at the forefront of this change, helping to shape the policies and programs of the new alcoholism movement during the 1940s and 1950s. Through his work with the Research Council on Problems of Alcohol, the Yale Section of Alcohol Studies, and the World Health Organization (WHO), he influenced and helped disseminate the work of alcohol researchers and treatment professionals around the world.

Born in New York City, Jellinek was raised in Hungary and educated at the Universities of Berlin, Leipzig, and Grenoble. His studies ranged from philosophy and theology ...