The effects of alcohol on human physiological and psychological processes are reviewed. Among the physiological process discussed are the effects on the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and the cardiovascular system. The absorption and distribution pathways of alcohol are also discussed. Psychological effects include vision, muscular co-ordination, and memory processes. Research indicates that alcohol impairs vision and muscular co-ordination. It is also noted that no standard system to test the effects of alcohol on reaction time has been developed. A large part of the discussion on psychological effects is dedicated to memory processes. Comments on several studies which show inhibitory effects and those which show facilitative effects are given. Context-dependent factors are also discussed. The paper concludes by giving a summary of the issues involved and suggestions for future research.