Fat as a neoliberal epidemic: Analyzing fat bodies through the lens of political epidemiology

Since the establishment of “obesity epidemic” narrative in 1990s, several social ills have been attributed to fatness: among them urban sprawl, automatization, consumerism, working mothers, a crisis self-reliance, decay religious values as well deterioration traditional family general and dinner particular, name only few. However, describing fatness symptom unwanted developments is pastime not exclusively reserved for conservative commentators. Progressive proponents who consider themselves part political epidemiology are likewise quick interpret fat bodies symbol decay, consequence commodification, globalization, growing inequalities, more generally rise neoliberal policies. In this paper I will offer critique particular brand by analyzing three influential texts that characterize epidemic. conclusion, argue economic analysis health respects weight diversity but recognizes stigma crucial inequalities contemporary Western societies.