Emotions and Desire
The desire for the drinks that Standage describes throughout the novel came mostly from seeking particular emotions, particularly happiness. Half of the drinks he mentions contain alcohol, which can easily make one drunk. Though ancient peoples didn't know the harmful affects of becoming drunk, they did know that it made them happy, and made them seek more of it. This desire played a key role in world history.
Complexity of History
It is easy to simply think of history as a cause and effect timeline that fits perfectly into place. However, it is not that easy. History was influenced by many factors, including those that you may not immediately think of. The truth is, history is based on the combined social, economic, and political outcomes of a society, which can be reciprocated, especially in the modern age, across the globe.
