The Fattening of America:
How the Economy Makes Us Fat, If It Matters, and What to Do About It
by Eric A. Finkelstein and Laurie Zuckerman
Author and health economist Eric Finkelstein and coauthor Laurie Zuckerman, former PR professional and business
writer, posit that economics and technology are as much to blame for America’s obesity as other causes more readily
brought to mind, such as genetics and food industry marketing. Calling this sociological event the ObesEconomy, the
authors say obesity has spawned a lucrative market for new products and services. Further, until economic incentives
are instituted that encourage individuals to make right health choices, there is little hope of stemming the obesity
epidemic.
The Fattening of America: How the Economy Makes Us Fat, If It Matters, and What to Do About It by
Finkelstein and Zuckerman uses theory, research, and humor to explore the various factors commonly blamed for
obesity in adults and children. Some chapter titles are: "I’ll Take a Deep-fried Coca-Cola," "So We’re Fat - Who
Cares?" and "How to Lose Weight Like an Economist." (Who knew economists could be funny?) Further, the authors
suggest economic strategies to rein in obesity - such as making it cheaper and easier to be thin, rather than fat.
What a concept, huh?
This is not a book that condemns obese persons, but the authors do "believe the vast majority of overweight
people could weigh less than they currently do if the environment were more conducive to weight loss." Finkelstein
admits he’s an obsessive dad and soccer coach (his team gets water and oranges after a game), and is willing to be
unpopular to do what’s best for the kids’ health. Though examined from an economic standpoint (and, yes, there are
charts and statistics), The Fattening of America is conversational, understandable, and warmly inviting. It
is an easy, enjoyable read. Take it home. Check it out. Live healthy. |
The Book |
John Wiley & Sons |
January 9, 2008 |
Hardcover |
0-47-012466-0 / 978-0-47012466-6 |
Health / Health Economics |
More at Amazon.com |
Excerpt |
NOTE: |
The Reviewer |
Deb Kincaid |
Reviewed 2008 |
NOTE: |
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