Fast Food, Fast Profits

Obesity in America

1. People’s eating habits are largely controlled by what they see around them. How do neighborhood landscapes and schools contribute to this problem? (3)

2. Food lobbyist John Bade said we cannot expect to legislate consumer behavior. Is that a fair statement? Can you think of any examples in which government has or has not been able to do so? What do you think about the responses of J. Justin Wilson from the Center for Consumer Freedom to the questions “Should it be regulated” and “Should children be protected”? What role can be played by government? By schools? (8)

3. It could be argued that there is a conflict between government, the food industry and public interest. Describe the conflict or, if you disagree, explain why you think there isn’t one. (5)