Charles Knowles
– Author of Why We Drink Too Much

A middle-aged man with light skin, brown hair, and blue eyes is standing indoors against a plain light-colored wall. He is wearing a dark blazer, white dress shirt, and jeans, with one hand in his pocket and a serious expression on his face.

Why We Drink Too Much explores the biological, psychological, and cultural forces that shape our relationship with alcohol.

Drawing on evidence and research, Charles Knowles examines why drinking remains so deeply embedded in modern life - and why it affects people so differently.

Meet the Author
Book cover titled "Why We Drink Too Much" by Dr. Charles Knowles, with subtitle "The Hidden Science of Just One More" and quote from Robin Ince.
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About the Book…

Why We Drink Too Much is an evidence-based exploration of alcohol use, drinking culture, and public health, written by British surgeon and researcher Charles Knowles. Combining scientific research, medical insight, and lived experience, the book examines how alcohol became embedded in society and what modern research reveals about its impact on behaviour, wellbeing, and long-term health.

Inside the book, readers explore:

  • The science of alcohol’s effects on the brain and body

  • Cultural and historical drivers of drinking behaviour

  • Evidence around alcohol use and health outcomes

  • Psychological and social influences on consumption

  • Questions shaping modern alcohol research and public discussion

Designed for readers seeking clarity rather than instruction, the book supports informed reflection on alcohol use and wider societal attitudes. It offers accessible science-led context for anyone interested in alcohol research, health literacy, and understanding our evolving relationship with drinking.

Podcasts Appearances

  • Podcast cover for 'The Big Drink Rethink,' episode 34 titled 'Alcohol & Health: Its Journey Through the Body,' featuring Anna Donaghey and Charles Knowles.

    The Big Drink Rethink

    Ep 34 - Alcohol & Health: It’s Journey Through the Body

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  • Cover image for the STOMPCast podcast featuring Dr. Alex George, showing two men outdoors, with trees in the background, both smiling and wearing jackets.

    STOMPCAST PODCAST with Dr Alex George

    Pt1. - The Truth About Why We Drink | Professor Charles Knowles

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  • Book cover for 'Why We Drink Too Much: Breaking Free from Alcohol Dependence,' episode 876 interview with Dr. Charles Knowles on 'This Naked Mind' podcast hosted by Annie Grace, featuring a cartoon brain wearing boots.

    This Naked Mind w Annie Grace - Why We Drink Too Much

    Breaking Free from Alcohol Dependence | Charles’ Naked Life | EP876

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  • Event poster promoting a podcast episode about alcohol's impact on bodies and culture, featuring Dr. Charles Knowles, a professor, surgeon, author, and sobriety advocate.

    Alcohol Minimalist

    The Impact of Alcohol on our Bodies & Culture with Dr. Charles Knowles

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“A compelling and fascinating exploration of why we drink—and why some of us can’t stop. The author lays bare his soul in a raw, honest account of his struggles with alcohol, interwoven with world-class scientific insight into the brain, genetics, and the powerful pull of this drug.  A must-read for anyone, especially those seeking to understand the hidden forces that drive us to drink too much."

Dr Andrew Jenkinson, Bestselling author of ‘Why we Eat too Much’.

Praise for “Why We Drink Too Much”

  • “This book is illuminating, fascinating and beautifully written. If you’ve ever had an issue with drink and asked yourself ‘why me?’ then this book is for you”. 

    Clare Pooley: Bestselling author of the ‘Sober Diaries’ & ‘The Authenticity Project’

  • “A fantastic book. Charlie presents the reader with his wealth of knowledge and experience in an accessible and engaging way, stripping away the confusion on this difficult topic”.

    William Porter: Bestselling author of ‘Alcohol Explained’

  • “'Brilliant. Devastating. Hopeful. Dr. Knowles blends science, story and compassion in a way that will resonate deeply with anyone rethinking their drinking”.

    Anna Donaghey: author and host of ‘The Big Drink Rethink’

  • “The true gift, however, lies in the author’s candid sharing of his own drinking story - an experience that was not only addictive but ultimately became deeply problematic.”. 

    Jackie Malton, retired DCI Metropolitan Police and TV presenter

  • “Fancy a drink? Think again. This compelling text by a distinguished surgeon explains why”.

    Professor Stephen Westaby, Bestselling author of ‘Fragile Lives’

  • “Full of fascinating research”

    Robin Ince: Comedian, Actor, Writer and Broadcaster

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