Thread: Why are we fat?
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Old 07-23-2008, 02:24 PM   #79 (permalink)
Baraka_Guru
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Quote:
Originally Posted by jorgelito View Post
Incentives might help. Higher rates and taxes for unhealthy people because they refuse to become healthy and are a drain on the health care system. EX: Higher taxes and rates for smokers, fat people etc.
What about smokers and fat people who aren't a burden to the health care system? What about the non-smokers and skinny people who make lifestyle choices that are a burden?

You'd have to tax based on doctor's reports because there are many people who are otherwise healthy looking who have hearts that are ticking time bombs due to dietary choices and lack of exercise. There are "fat" people who almost never go to the doctor's and are otherwise healthy. Much of this is genetics, so I see a problem with such a system of "incentives."

How far would we have to go to ensure it's "fair"?
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