Drinking rich

[Lewis 0]

WASHINGTON (AFP) - People who consume alcohol earn significantly more at their jobs than non-drinkers, according to a US study that highlighted "social capital" gained from drinking.

The study published in the Journal of Labor Research Thursday concluded that drinkers earn 10 to 14 percent more than teetotalers, and that men who drink socially bring home an additional seven percent in pay.

"Social drinking builds social capital," said Edward Stringham, an economics professor at San Jose State University and co-author of the study with fellow researcher Bethany Peters.

"We created our hypothesis through casual observation and examination of scholarly accounts," the authors said.

The researchers said their empirical survey backed up the theory, and said the most likely explanation is that drinkers have a wider range of social contacts that help provide better job and business opportunities.

"Drinkers may be able to socialize more with clients and co-workers, giving drinkers an advantage in important relationships," the researchers said.

"Drinking may also provide individuals with opportunities to learn people, business, and social skills."

They also said these conclusions provide arguments against policies aimed at curbing alcohol use on university campuses and public venues.

The researchers found some differences in the economic effects of drinking among men and women. They concluded that men who drink earn 10 percent more than abstainers and women drinkers earn 14 percent more than non-drinkers.

However, unlike men, who get a seven percent income boost from drinking in bars, women who frequent bars at least once per month do not show higher earnings than women drinkers who do not visit bars.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20060914/hl_af...lehealthalcohol

[Peter Miami 1]

I have to start drinking some more.

Peter Miami

[Mrs. Forgetful 2]

I heard about this on talk radio last night. That must be why my husband and I aren't moving up career wise. I guess I should tell him to start drinking again! I don't think so! Thank God he wasn't in the car when that came on! It would be a new excuse for him to go out at night and not come home til 3 like he used to.

[mawilson 2,133]

Works for me. I wouldn't be where I am today without drinking.