Social Anthropology and Nutrition: A Different Look at Obesity in America
Author(s)
Cassell, Jo Anne
Abstract
The brief overview of historical attitudes toward obesity and nutrition is presented and the success of weight programs designed to induce slimness is discussed. During the Victorian era, round bodies and multi-course dinners were in vogue. In other cultures at other times, especially during difficult economic times, being overweight was considered fashionable and a sign of wealth. In modern times, the tendency to scorn obesity should be discouraged and dietitians should take the opportunity to be in the forefront of this campaign to change discriminatory social attitudes.
