Obesity, unhappiness, and the challenge of affluence: theory and evidence

Oswald, Andrew J. and Powdthavee, Nattavudh (2007) Obesity, unhappiness, and the challenge of affluence: theory and evidence. Economic Journal, Vol. 117 (No. 6). pp. 441-454. ISSN 0013-0133

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-0297.2007.02077_1.x

Abstract

Is affluence a good thing? The book "The Challenge of Affluence" by Avner Offer (2006) argues that economic prosperity weakens self-control and undermines human well-being. Consistent with a pessimistic view, we show that psychological distress has been rising through time in modern Great Britain. Taking over-eating as an example, our data reveal that half the British population view themselves as overweight, and that happiness and mental health are worse among fatter people in Britain and Germany. Comparisons also matter. We discuss problems of inference and argue that longitudinal data are needed. We suggest a theory of obesity imitation where utility depends on relative weight.

Item Type:Journal Article
Subjects:H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare
Divisions:Faculty of Social Studies > Economics
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):Obesity, Happiness, Mental health
Journal or Publication Title:Economic Journal
Publisher:Blackwell
ISSN:0013-0133
Date:22 June 2007
Volume:Vol. 117
Number:No. 6
Page Range:pp. 441-454
Status:Peer Reviewed
Access rights:Open Access
Funder:Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
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