Sconcing

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Sconcing is a tradition that originated in the University of Oxford and is associated with the consumption of alcohol. It is a form of social sanction or punishment that is imposed on a person who violates certain established norms or traditions. The person who is sconced is required to drink a pint of beer or other alcoholic beverage in one go.

History[edit | edit source]

The tradition of sconcing dates back to the 17th century at the University of Oxford. The term "sconce" was originally used to refer to a fine that was imposed on students for minor offenses. The fine was used to buy drinks for the other members of the college. Over time, the tradition evolved and the person who was fined was required to drink the alcohol themselves.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The procedure for sconcing varies between different colleges and universities. In some places, a person can be sconced for a variety of reasons, such as forgetting to wear their academic gown to dinner, or for making a factual error during a debate. The person who is sconced is usually required to drink a pint of beer, although the exact amount and type of drink can vary.

Criticism[edit | edit source]

Sconcing has been criticized for promoting excessive drinking and for being a form of hazing. Some colleges and universities have banned the practice due to concerns about the health and safety of students.

See also[edit | edit source]

Sconcing Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD