What The Research Tells Us About Moderation with Dr James Morris

What The Research Tells Us About Moderation with Dr James Morris

June 23, 2026 · 38 min · Episode 112

About this episode

Dr. James Morris discusses the complexities of moderation in alcohol consumption and the factors influencing drinking patterns.

In this enlightening episode of The Alcohol Debate, host Tabbin Almond welcomes back Dr. James Morris, a visiting scholar from London South Bank University, to delve into the complexities of moderation in alcohol consumption. With over 20 years of experience in public health policy and research, Dr. Morris shares his insights on how drinker identity, social norms, and stigma influence both consumption patterns and responses to interventions for those struggling with alcohol. The discussion begins with a clear definition of moderation, exploring the recommended drinking guidelines and the spectrum of alcohol-related risks. Dr. Morris highlights the individual variability in drinking patterns and the common desire among individuals to drink like "normal people," shedding light on the challenges many face in achieving this goal. The conversation addresses the controversial idea of controlled drinking, particularly in the context of those with a history of alcohol problems, and the misconceptions surrounding the ability to regain control over alcohol use. As the episode progresses, Dr. Morris reflects on his own journey with alcohol, discussing the importance of abstinence and the…

More episodes of The Alcohol Debate

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Alcohol Debate podcast page.