New Times,
New Thinking.

  1. Politics
20 October 2009

Is there such a thing as “fattism“?

Debating prejudice and intolerance

By Mehdi Hasan

Listening to Marsha Coupe on the radio this morning, I couldn’t help but wonder if she had a point about overweight and obese people being the last “socially acceptable” targets of abuse and ridicule, not to mention (in her case, at least) violence? Is “fattism” a form of bigotry and intolerance in the same league as sexism, racism, homophobia, Islamophobia, anti-Semitism and the rest? Or do people choose to be fat, and therefore open themselves up to legitimate criticism, or even mockery?

Dare I ask: what do you think?

Select and enter your email address Your weekly guide to the best writing on ideas, politics, books and culture every Saturday. The best way to sign up for The Saturday Read is via saturdayread.substack.com The New Statesman's quick and essential guide to the news and politics of the day. The best way to sign up for Morning Call is via morningcall.substack.com
Visit our privacy Policy for more information about our services, how Progressive Media Investments may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications.
THANK YOU

Content from our partners
Consulting is at the forefront of UK growth
Can green energy solutions deliver for nature and people?
"Why wouldn't you?" Joining the charge towards net zero