A Generalization of a Generation

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Over the past few years, discussions have been taking place over the controversial issue of whether or not food companies or the public should be held accountable for the growing rate of obesity. On one hand, many argue that these companies are too blame and that the government should be more active in the matter of what our people are consuming. On the other hand, however, others argue that it is our personal responsibility to handle our own weight, personal health and what we consume. Both sides feel very strongly on the matter and display their views through literature. In “Don’t Blame the Eater,” David Zinczenko discusses this controversial topic and whether or not the public should be to blame or the food industries themselves. He displays his opinion that these companies producing our foods are too blame and uses various reasons, examples, and personal expectances to defend his point. In “What You Eat Is Your Business,” Radely Balko disagrees with Zinczenko’s opinion and deems that the public is to blame on this issue and also uses numerous explanations to defend his personal belief. In “What You Eat Is Your Business” Radely Balko brings up the fact that the reason people are becoming unhealthy is because they will not take responsibility for there own actions. He discusses the government’s involvement and how they should stay out of what people choose to eat and leave it too themselves. He brings up the point that over the past couple of decades the American health care system is becoming more and more socialistic because your own well-being is now being considered a matter of public health rather then personal. He proves this by discussing the fact that the government is beginning to regulate many different aspects of o... ... middle of paper ... ...t we do want to remain independent people and avoid relying on our government. Both Zinczenko and Balko both would disagree with my opinion due to the fact that both of their opinions are extreme and feel strongly on the matter. Although I do disagree with Balko and his opinion that the government should stay out completely in the matter of our consumption such as when he disagrees with the government not allowing soda in public schools. I also agree with Balko on the matter of healthcare and how other people are paying for the unhealthy habits of others and this will eliminate the financial incentive for individuals to stay healthy. The problem of obesity is continuing to grow every day. I believe that the government should maintain a small role in the regulation of our foods but also let the public hold some level of personal responsibility to remain independent.

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