Can Government Combat Obesity Without Becoming a "Nanny State"?: Personal Freedom and Personal Well-Being Don't Have to Be Mutually Exclusive

By: Peter A. Ubel

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Synopsis: Political extremists of all persuasions are often paranoid about the slippery slope, worrying that any tiny concessions they make will lead to complete absolution of their position. Free market enthusiasts would rather have a fat and free citizenry, for instance, than consider perceived interventions into personal liberties, even if those interventions are made on behalf of the health of the general public. In this chapter, behavioral scientist and physician Peter Ubel considers whether or not a middle ground exists in the argument between liberty and personal well-being. He explores what governments can do to combat obesity, from the win-win solutions promoted by soft paternalists, to more intrusive alternatives. This chapter is excerpted from "Free Market Madness: Why Human Nature Is at Odds with Economics--and Why It Matters."