http://www.npr.org/2012/01/09/144799538/controversy-swirls-around-harsh-anti-obesity-ads?sc=fb&cc=fp
Interesting campaign in Georgia against childhood obesity. Should the govt be intervening on eating habits? Is that crossing a line? C'mon libertarian friends- let loose!
It's an interesting approach- using the same approach as anti tobacco and anti meth ads. Maybe to some it may seem extreme- but maybe we just want to ignore how dire the obesity epidemic really is. It's kind of weird...because as someone who tries (somewhat) to live healthy (stupid diet and exercise...I want pizza!) seeing these awful habits start early and translate into such awful health situations upsets me. But I also know many people in my life whose weight adversely affects their health- and I don't hate them and I'm not mad at them. Hate the addiction, not the addict, I suppose...
A challenge eh? Well, of course this isn't a government issue. It violates every tenant of libertarianism! My question is why cannot non-profits provide guidance? If the problem is to such epic proportions then I believe we are a country of philanthropists (to varying degrees)and leadership should be provided from a non-governmental means. That doesn't mean the ads or overall message will be ineffective. If we are going to have the government tell our children or anyone that they are doing something wrong then I hope it is successful. That does not in any make it morally right or philosophically correct.
ReplyDeleteI am a private matter. I do not owe the government a 32 inch waist.
One could argue that it is unjust discrimination against a persons lifestyle choice, chronic condition, or malady. There is a problem. Living in the South I see the numbers as friends, co-workers, and fellow humans. The solution is with as the story pointed out a parent, family, etc. Why do we need the government to remind of something everyone can see?