According to Tradition 1, what should come first in A.A.?

Tradition 1 of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) emphasizes the importance of the group and the collective well-being of its members. This tradition articulates that the welfare of the community must take precedence over individual interests. By prioritizing the common welfare, A.A. reinforces the concept that everyone's recovery is interconnected; when individuals focus on the group’s health, they create an environment that fosters personal recovery.

This principle is fundamental to the A.A. philosophy, suggesting that the success of the individual is closely tied to the strength and support of the community. In a group setting, when the common welfare is prioritized, members are more likely to support one another, share experiences, and create a supportive atmosphere conducive to recovery. Fulfilling the needs of the group ultimately benefits each member personally.

This is why the focus on common welfare captures the essence of Tradition 1, prioritizing the group over the individual. The other options, while they pertain to important aspects of recovery and support, do not embody the primary emphasis that Tradition 1 places on collective well-being as the foundation for recovery within A.A.