Stenius & Babor offer an erudite approach to the divisive problem of alcohol beverage industry research funding. They urge scientists strongly to abstain but recognize that not all will be able or willing [1].
Earlier this year, an extraordinary expression of support emerged for the 'hands-off' approach [2]. More than 50, mainly Australian, scientists (this author included) and health experts co-signed a letter to the editor of the Medical Journal of Australia highlighting the pro-industry function of social aspects/public relations organizations (SAPROs) [3] and pledging to reject funding from the Australian alcohol SAPRO, 'DrinkWise'[2]. A relative newcomer, DrinkWise has reportedly funded research by 'leading academics'[sic] from at least five Australian universities [4]. . . . .
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