I think there is an ethical consideration about addictive substances like tobacco. It's not okay for companies to use physical addiction to force further sales of their product, and many/most teenagers aren't able or willing to think through the ramifications of starting a long term addictive habit.

I'll take it a step further...not only is the product addictive and a known carcinogen. But, the gov approves its sale _and_ taxes it.

Imagine UBL saying he was going to "infect" America with an addictive carcinogen. There would be true outrage. But since we do it to ourselves - fed approved - it normal.

Do you believe alcohol sales are un-ethical? Alcohol can be extremely addictive, and in spite of the rampant use among youth, I don't hear public outcry against brewers. I'm not saying it's apples-to-apples, but I believe the fact that those crying out want alcohol more than a vape may play a role in the selection of Boogeyman of the Day.

Lockyer v. Reynolds demonstrates companies targeting children is considered a significant issue. Vaping seems to be sidestepping those regulations and actively targeting young teens.

Further, alcohol has a drinking age of 21 making it somewhat harder for young teens to regularly access. Vaping on the other hand becomes a regular habit due to easy access.

I see what you're saying, and while I personally don't consume much alcohol, I'm not convinced its sale is unethical. I think there's a difference that makes tobacco addiction more problematic: The large majority of smokers are addicted, but only a small proportion of alcohol drinkers are.

The tobacco Master Settlement Agreement with the states has a provision whereby they lose money if cessation programs are 'too' successful: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tobacco-bonds-ecigs-insig...

& then also, I suspect the incumbent tobacco industry lobbying effort is already deeply entrenched and dwarfs anything that might be fielded by the e-cig industry.