The Obesity Epidemic: Science, Morality and Ideology

Description

It is a unanimously accepted and widely condemned fact that the population of the world, in the prosperous regions at least, is getting fatter. Obesity, usually linked with declining levels of physical activity, is often cited as the single greatest cause of unnecessary death and disease. Both in fashion and in health science, 'thin is in'. But have the medical and scientific community been complacent in their analysis of the crisis? The Obesity Epidemic argues that the current state of scientific thinking is a complex mix of science, morality and ideological assumptions about people and their lives. The authors question the scientific legitimacy of accepted thought about the causes of obesity, arguing that ideological bias and debatable moral assumptions have had a significant effect on research. The authors examine the 'obesity epidemic' from a variety of angles, exploring the both science of obesity and the construction of the 'obesity epidemic' in the popular media. This is a controversial book about a critical theme in health and exercise studies. It provides much needed, thorough and reflective analysis of the current state of research and is set to contribute a great deal to the debate. It will be essential reading for anyone interested in health and obesity issues, including teachers, scientists, health workers, doctors and policy makers.

Michael Gard is Senior Lecturer in Physcial Education at Charles Sturt University, Australia. Jan Wright is a Professor of Education and Associate Dean (Research) in the Faculty of Education at the University of Wollongong, Australia.

'The Obesity Epidemic is a superb contribution to the sociology of knowledge, and an essential text for anyone who wants to understand the current moral panic over fat.' - Paul Campos, University of Colorado, author of The Obesity Myth 'The strength in this book lies in its ability to provide its readers with a critical view of obesity science by challenging them to go beyond traditional thinking ... reminding them of the harmful and stigmatizing consequences of adopting a 'war on obesity' mentality ... This book is an essential read for anyone who is interested in health, obesity, health promotion, and public health.' - Krista Rondeau, Dieticians of Canada