I agree with jpclair that if there are safe alternatives to smoking, they should be explored and the government should study them.  However, I think the question here is whether smokeless tobacco a ''safe'' alternative.  How credible are the scientific claims in that article?

I can’t believe Wall Street Journal published an article today, “The Case for Smokeless Tobacco,” and actually encouraged their audience to consider chewing tobacco if they want to quit smoking.  The article refers to scientific studies, scientists, and public health officials who legitimize chewing tobacco as a way to quit smoking; implying ...