Buying research

Doubts have been raised in the popular press about the credibility and desirability of alcohol research funded by the industry. In this paper, it is asserted that little independent, empirical research is available on the effects commercial sponsorship has on the research topic and outcome. The author proposes further research in this area that would be helpful in clearing the menaces of unwanted funding practices. It is suggested to draw up guidelines or rules of conduct similar to those that are being developed in, particularly, pharmacological research, an area that is highly dependent upon sponsorship by commercial industry.