BODIES: Why We Look the Way We Do (And How We Feel About It)

by Barry Glassner ‧ RELEASE DATE: July 13, 1988

Here, Glassner (coauthor, Drugs in Adolescence, 1987) hurls broadsides at the health and exercise craze--as well as argues that the sudden penchant for developing a ""perfect body"" comes from traditional American values such as ""self-control, personal achievement and prosperity."" Glassner blames the fitness movement for the increased prevalence of anorexia, heart attacks (during jogging); torn muscles, and exercise addiction. He cites the superficiality of judging others primarily by appearance. He also flaunts the excessive claims of so-called fitness professionals, and questions studies that show greater longevity, disease resistance, and reduced absenteeism for diet-exercise buffs. Genetic or class factors may, Glassner says, skew the findings: the athletically inclined may be born energetic; the health-conscious usually come from wealthier (and healthier) strata of society. He then goes on to trace the fitness movement to Dr. Spock (who advised against rigid child-rearing rules, hence producing a generation that values self-control); to President Kennedy (who stressed fitness as ""one of America's most precious resources""), and even to President Reagan (who eschews government programs in favor of ""self-reliance""). He cites recent, often contradictory research on ""the body ideals of our culture."" Two findings: Today's Americans must determine status through physical appearance rather than through, as in the past, personal knowledge of family lineage and class; attractive people earn 11% more than average-looking men and women. And, although there are some compulsive exercisers and anorexics among his 90 interviewees, most seem to have benefitted from their regimens. Despite some interesting insights, a work that straddles its two themes awkwardly and incompletely. Glassner damns the entire diet-exercise movement through its excesses; but in explaining its roots, he fails to recognize that every era has produced an ideal human image--from the slim athletic bodies of ancient Greece to the corseted, wasp-waisted Gibson girl.

Pub Date: July 13, 1988

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Putnam

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 1988

Categories: NONFICTION