The Distribution of Alcohol Consumption—30 years on

Summary The Ledermann theory and its implications for alcohol control policy have been the source of considerable controversy. This paper describes the original theory and subsequent modifications, and a brief review of the extensive debate on the subject is presented. It is concluded that the implications of the Ledermann theory concerning alcoholism and the experience of alcohol‐related harm are based on an inadequate foundation. More precise estimation of risk functions relating harm to consumption will be of importance in the development and acceptability of alcohol control policy.