A social issue that I
find very compelling is the issue of obesity. We live in a country where too
many people are overweight and continue to eat horrible food. While many of us
recognize that this problem exists, people continue to get larger and larger with
almost no end in sight. I think it is compelling because so many people are
impacted by it yet the problem continues to get worse. People still continue to
go to McDonald's and other fast food places even though they know how bad that
food is for them. Many people sacrifice their health for convenience and cheap
prices.
The Catholic Social
Teachings say that consumption is an important part of experiencing life. In
order to feel like a human being we all must take in certain amounts of things
in our everyday life. Whether that be food, drink, or memorable experiences. The
Catholic Social Teachings do say that over consumption is a major issue and is
one that must be addressed. They speak of obesity as a great evil because of
the amount of lives it ends.
I think that it is
important that this topic is addressed by the Catholic Social Teachings;
however there is not a lot that can be done. People need to get into a mindset
where they realize that they must eat healthy or their quality of life will
suffer. My experiences at Loras have shown me that many people have different viewpoints.
Eating healthy is important to me, but it may not be that important to somebody
else. Until everyone comes together and tries to eat healthier obesity will
continue to be a major problem in the world that we live in.
Austin, I agree that obesity is a major issue facing our society today and I think it is important that we talk about it in light of the Catholic Social Teachings. This issue, in particular, seems to be one that really must start at the individual level for it to be addressed. However, I believe it does come back to the bigger group, such as communities who give free nutrition classes and wages that can buy the healthier options. I think exercise there is also a lack of exercise factor that contributes to this issue as well. The Catholic Social Teachings point you brought up is interesting because it seems to imply that everything in moderation is acceptable, even if it is not the healthiest option.
ReplyDeleteWhile this isn't something that quickly came to mind as a social issue, you're definitely right; this is a battle a great deal of individuals face. Obesity is also something that, if not handled correctly, can lead to other health and emotional issues. The idea that over consumption is a major issue is true, and it reminds me of our discussions in this class as well as in previous ones, about the importance of moderation and the effects of the decisions we make. Of course eating is necessary to live, but we can choose how much we eat as well as what we eat. As you mentioned, this is something that starts with an individual decision, but for a broader change would require everyone to first come together with the determination to change.
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