1. Male health professionals (doctors, dentists, veterinarians) comprised the subjects observed in the Harvard School of Public Health study, which concluded that frequent, moderate drinking is beneficial. In contrast, the study that George Davey-Smith uses to support his argument that the benefits of frequent, moderate drinking have been exaggerated used middle-aged men from West Scotland as study subjects. Does the choice of study subjects affect the credibility of the authors’ arguments? Explain.
2. Stanton Peele argues that patients should be told of the potential health benefits and risks of alcohol, which would allow them to choose for themselves whether or not to drink. Charlotte LoBuono maintains that since the health benefits of alcohol are not fully substantiated while the detrimental effects are well known, medical professionals should not encourage their patients to begin drinking. Which argument is more convincing? Explain, citing from the viewpoints.
3. Using a study...