Obesity - Is the Culture of Fat Contagious?

Have you seen Burger King's Whopper Virgins commercials? They aren't without their share of controversy. Most people are up in arms because the commercials are exploitative (and I agree), but I'm also bothered because I think Whopper "virgins" should be allowed to keep their virginity. Don't go ripping off those promise rings, Burger King.

There are precious few parts of the world that haven't been graced with the golden arches or the King. In fact, I hosted a young boy for the summer of 2005. He lived in an orphanage in a very remote part of Siberia and, while he had never eaten it before, he was fully aware of McDonald's and shouted out with glee the first time we passed by one.

When it comes to obesity, the U.S. is certainly a front-runner. But we aren't the only ones who consider getting fat a national pastime. According to some, the constant availability of quick and easy (and fatty, high-calorie) foods are largely to blame. Like a cold virus through a kindergarten classroom, our obesity-producing lifestyle is spreading to other cultures. And it's a sad state of affairs.