A Historical and Cultural Perspective on Obesity in Eastern and Western Civilizations
A humorous comparison between the obese Daniel Lambert and Charles James Fox, the politician. Colored etching by C. Williams, 1806.*
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Table of Content:
Introduction
The Cultural Perspective of Obesity in the Paleolithic and Neolithic Eras
The Classical Era: Obesity as a Sign of Wealth and Prosperity
The Medieval and Renaissance Eras: Obesity as a Sign of Sin and Indulgence
The Enlightenment Era: A Shift Towards a Medical Understanding of Obesity
The Cultural Perspective of Obesity in Eastern Civilizations: Traditional Medicine
Modern Perspectives
Conclusion
References
Introduction
Obesity is a complex condition that has been present throughout human history. Although prevalent in Eastern and Western civilizations, cultural attitudes towards obesity have varied widely. In this article, we will explore the historical and cultural perspectives of obesity in Eastern and Western societies, highlighting the differences and similarities in attitudes towards this condition.
The Cultural Perspective of Obesity in the Paleolithic and Neolithic Eras
During the Paleolithic period, the Stone Age, obesity was not a concern as humans were physically active and consumed a diet primarily composed of lean protein and plant foods. Obesity was not a significant concern during this time due to the physically demanding lifestyle of hunter-gatherers.
However, the Neolithic period, also known as the Agricultural Revolution, marked a significant shift in human history. During this time, humans began cultivating crops and domesticating animals, leading to a more settled and sedentary lifestyle.
As a result, there was a shift in the human diet towards a more carbohydrate-heavy diet, which included grains, legumes, and dairy products. This diet was higher in calories and lower in protein and fiber than the Paleolithic diet, leading to an increased risk of obesity.
Despite this, obesity was not viewed negatively during the Neolithic era. In fact, it was often seen as a sign of wealth and prosperity, as it indicated that individuals had access to ample food and resources. This is evident in many ancient artworks and sculptures depicting figures with rounded bellies and ample curves.
The Classical Era: Obesity as a Sign of Wealth and Prosperity
During the Classical era, obesity was often viewed positively as a sign of wealth and prosperity. In Ancient Egypt, for example, obesity was seen as a desirable trait, particularly in women, as it was a sign of beauty and fertility. Similarly, in Ancient Greece, obesity was associated with prosperity and abundance, as wealthy individuals had access to plentiful food supplies. The famous sculpture, Venus of Willendorf, is believed to depict a woman considered beautiful in her time, despite her obesity.
The Medieval and Renaissance Eras: Obesity as a Sign of Sin and Indulgence
During the medieval and Renaissance eras, obesity was associated with sin and indulgence. In the Christian tradition, gluttony was considered one of the seven deadly sins, and obesity was seen as a manifestation of this sin. Similarly, in the Islamic tradition, overindulgence in food was seen as a sign of moral weakness. This negative perception of obesity continued into the Renaissance era, where it was often depicted in artwork as a symbol of sin and excess.
The Enlightenment Era: A Shift Towards a Medical Understanding of Obesity
The Enlightenment era saw a shift towards a medical understanding of obesity. Physicians began recognizing obesity as a medical condition rather than a moral failing. Medical treatments for obesity, such as caloric restriction and exercise, were developed.
The Cultural Perspective of Obesity in Eastern Civilizations: Traditional Medicine
In Eastern cultures such as Indian and Chinese cultures, obesity has been addressed through traditional medicine for thousands of years, focusing on balancing the body's energies and restoring harmony to the body. Traditional medicines such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasize the importance of a healthy diet, exercise, and meditation in maintaining a healthy weight.
Modern Perspectives
Despite advances in medical and scientific knowledge, obesity remains a significant public health concern in both Eastern and Western cultures. In Western cultures, there is a growing emphasis on promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing the prevalence of obesity through diet and exercise. In addition, medical treatments such as bariatric surgery may be recommended for individuals with severe obesity. In Eastern cultures, traditional medicine continues to play a role in addressing obesity, focusing on restoring balance and harmony to the body through various treatments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cultural and social perceptions of obesity have changed throughout history, with different societies and eras holding different views. While it was not a concern during the physically demanding lifestyle of the Paleolithic period, it became more prevalent during the sedentary lifestyle of the Neolithic era. Despite this, obesity was often viewed positively as a sign of wealth and prosperity, particularly in women, during the Classical period. During the medieval and Renaissance eras, obesity was associated with sin and indulgence. In contrast, the Enlightenment era shifted towards a medical understanding of the condition. In Eastern cultures such as Indian and Chinese cultures, obesity has been addressed through traditional medicine for thousands of years, focusing on balancing the body's energies and restoring harmony to the body.
Understanding the cultural and social perceptions of obesity throughout history can help us appreciate how our attitudes toward this condition have evolved. In addition, by recognizing the complex factors contributing to obesity, we can work towards promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing the prevalence of this condition today.
References:
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Charcot, J. M. (1868). Sur quelques points de l'etiology et de la pathologie du gros ventre. Gazette des hopitaux (Paris), 41, 257-261.
Juvenal, D. J. (circa 100 AD). Satires.
Summa Theologica, II-II, Q. 148, A. 1.
Wrigley, R. (2010). The Venus of Willendorf. British Museum Press.
Cordain L, Eaton SB, Sebastian A, et al. Origins and evolution of the Western diet: health implications for the 21st century. Am J Clin Nutr. 2005;81(2):341-354.
NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-RisC). Trends in adult body-mass index in 200 countries from 1975 to 2014: a pooled analysis of 1698 population-based measurement studies with 19.2 million participants. Lancet. 2016;387(10026):1377-1396.
Pomeroy S. Goddesses, Whores, Wives, and Slaves: Women in Classical Antiquity. New York: Schocken Books; 1995.
Stevens JR. Gluttony and Obesity in the Middle Ages. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press; 2017.
*https://wellcomecollection.org/works/nen325kp/images?id=f93suq5g
