by Morris E. Chafetz

About the author: Morris E. Chafetz is the founding director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, president of the Health Education Foundation in Washington, D.C., and the author of The Tyranny of Experts: Blowing the Whistle on the Cult of Expertise.

As a psychiatrist, scientist, and former architect of the national effort to prevent alcohol problems, it was my job to seek out the best science, both biomedical and behavioral. Today, a heated debate swirls around the issue of restricting alcohol advertising on TV. Assorted opponents who argue that advertising contributes to alcohol-related problems—especially among young people—are way off base.

Where Is the Evidence"

When I consider the pros and cons of alcohol advertising and its alleged effect on problem drinking, I...