Hi Ken,
Smokers kill themselves.
I'd like to add. And people nearby via passive smoking. Particularly those who have no control like young children.
I remember times when I visited housholds where both parents were smoking and a baby in the room.
Cigarette smoke was at the near choking level.
Drinkers often, and regularly, kill themselves, other people, and whole families. Usually on the road.
And yet drinking is encouraged! (I assume you mean through advertising)
I agree that alcohol advertising should be limited. Banning either would disrupt the economy to the point of near collapse.
The gradual phasing out of smoking seems to be a workable solution.
I expect the same to happen with alcohol eventually.
I don't wish to deny people of their right to smoke, just so long as it does not affect others.
Getting back to our teetotaller aquaintence: I would not dignify his posted comment with a response. We all have varying but similar opinions of him. He does not seem well informed.
"Don't argue with a fool. He will bring you down to his level and beat you with experience."
Cheers