Addiction can be defined as “the fact or condition of being dependent on a particular substance or activity” (Oxford University Press, 2014). Addictive substances can vary significantly, from drugs, alcohol and gambling, to art, food and exercise. There are many points of view regarding the development of addiction; Is it more appropriate to view addiction as an illness or a moral failure? The disease model treats addiction as a disease and related behaviors as signs and symptoms. A disease can be described as “a disorder of structure or function in a human, animal or plant: which produces specific symptoms: and is not simply the direct result of physical damage” (Oxford University Press, 2014). Suggestions that addictions are diseases appear in the literature as early as the 1700s (Campbell, 2003). However, during the 1700s it was widely accepted that addiction was a symptom of pathological breakdown or impairment of accepted moral functioning (Harding, 1986). In the early 19th century, addiction was still seen as a bad habit, not a disease (Berridge, 1979). The 20th century saw the development of the medical profession, which provided a greater understanding of the psychological and physiological effects of addictive behavior, although some believe that morality plays a greater role. They argue that it takes a conscious act of effort to consume enough drugs for addiction to develop (CITE). However, the "disease model" states that many individuals are made vulnerable to addiction by genetics. The observation of an association between addiction and genetics has been confirmed by family, twin, and adoption studies (Ball, 2006). Merikangas et al (1998) found a significantly increased risk of addiction among relatives of drug addicts. Ujike (2008) also found evidence for… half the paper… factors. Addiction should be viewed as a brain disorder, but not as a disorder that can be completely separated from morality and personal responsibility. Medical and moral perceptions of addiction can be combined (Berridge, 1979). Additionally, research on addiction as a disease appears more abundant, which limited the scope of this essay. This may be because, as psychology develops as a science, it is considered more compelling to find evidence that can be measured scientifically rather than socially. Furthermore, intensive research into the biological, rather than moral, basis of addiction may lead to further advances in effective treatment. Furthermore, if it is for the greater good of society, it seems that forcing treatment is considered ethically acceptable if it is only to the point of recovery. However, drug users have the right to refuse, which should be respected.