Fat : an exploration into the political ramifications of excess adipose tissue in Canada
Date
2011-09-15
Authors
Stewart, Chad Vernon Douglas
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Abstract
The state and individual must both understand that the increase in fat rates is a social phenomenon that requires reconciliation between collective and individual participation. A social movement needs to be generated that seeks solutions to this health phenomenon through preventative health measures; because the state’s current reactionary response does not address the factors that contribute to increased fat. These factors transcend the direct relationship between an individual, food and exercise, and also involve power. The current policy definition of fat is incorrect because it does not address the multiple variables that have generated an increase in common indicators of obesity; rather, it relies on inaccurate measurement systems, differing conceptions of the healthy individual, and narrow understandings of what causes obesity. The result is the current paralysis of policy reform. This thesis provides solutions that reconcile the current political definition with my own in order to advocate health promotion strategies that activate both the citizen and the state.
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Keywords
obesity, health promotion, sedentary lifestyle, fat politics, individual and state