Philosophy Statement

As basis for open dialogue with the scientific and public health communities, and as a contribution to meaningful discourse concerning beverage alcohol's role in society, the companies sponsoring the International Center for Alcohol Policies believe:

1. The vast majority of people who consume beverage alcohol do so responsibly and in order to enhance the quality of their lives.

2. When consumed moderately and in a responsible manner by those with good health and dietary habits and who have no medical reason to refrain from drinking, beverage alcohol is associated with very few risks of harm and has been reported to have some beneficial effects on health.

3. Irresponsible consumption of beverage alcohol is associated with a variety of risks both to the individual and to the public in health, social, economic, and safety contexts. Irresponsible consumption refers to high levels of intake, either on single occasions or repeatedly, or to drinking in inappropriate circumstances or by those who should not be drinking at all.

4. Alcohol policies need to be based upon an objective understanding of available research on alcohol use and abuse; and should aim to create a reasonable balance of government regulation, industry self-regulation and individual responsibility.