Why is drinking so popular?

I really do not understand it. From what I know about it makes you sick, has a bitter taste to it, weakens your senses, and can become addictive. It is made out of fermented fruit which is not exactly appealing. Yet if you do not drink it's considered weird and "uncool". the "benefits" to it are that it makes you forget... Why is that good? And I did ask my alcoholic friend why he drinks( he was a total reck by the way) and he said it tastes good. So does having a milk shake or a smoothies, why go for alcohol. And why do people use it to celebrate? It weakens memories so you can't fully remember what happened. please help me understand Because I really don't get it