Difference between revisions of "New Atheism leadership's problem with excess weight"

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[[File:PzMyers2.jpg|thumbnail|300px|right|[[PZ Myers]]
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[[File:PzMyers2.jpg|thumbnail|300px|right|[[PZ Myers]] is a leader within the [[New Atheism]] movement.
 
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<small>(photo obtained from [http://www.flickr.com/photos/reuvenim/4426093513/ Flickr], see [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/deed.en  license agreement])</small> ]]
 
<small>(photo obtained from [http://www.flickr.com/photos/reuvenim/4426093513/ Flickr], see [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/deed.en  license agreement])</small> ]]
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[[New Atheism]] is a form of [[militant atheism]]. The term New Atheism which first appeared in the November 2006 edition of ''Wired'' magazine, is frequently applied to a series of six best-selling books by five authors that appeared in the period between 2004–2008.  These authors include [[Sam Harris]], [[Daniel Dennett]], [[Richard Dawkins]], Victor J. Stenger and [[Christopher Hitchens]].<ref>http://www.colorado.edu/philosophy/vstenger/battle.html</ref>  The New Atheist leaders claim to be pro-science, 3 out of 5 of these [[atheism|atheist]] men have had issues with being overweight as can be seen [http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3UXl0oMYPLs/SXgxH_-MgFI/AAAAAAAAAF4/EU-wzxEjOmc/s1600-h/atheist-reason.jpg HERE] and [http://www.flickr.com/photos/7230309@N05/3708479160/ HERE] and [http://news.softpedia.com/newsImage/Quantum-Mechanics-Could-Link-Humans-with-the-Universe-2.jpg/ HERE] [[PZ Myers]] is also a leader within the New Atheism movement who has a blog entitled [[Pharyngula (blog)|Pharyngula]].  [[PZ Myers|Myers has had problems with being overweight]] as can be seen [http://www.flickr.com/photos/cfimi/5244769742/ HERE]. On June 1, 2011, Myers posted a picture of himself and others on his blog and Myers appeared to no longer have issues with being overweight.<ref>http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/06/the_final_tally_on_the_camp_qu.php</ref> For more information please see: [[Atheism and obesity]].
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[[New Atheism]] is a form of [[militant atheism]]. The term New Atheism which first appeared in the November 2006 edition of ''Wired'' magazine, is frequently applied to a series of six best-selling books by five authors that appeared in the period between 2004–2008.  These authors include [[Sam Harris]], [[Daniel Dennett]], [[Richard Dawkins]], Victor J. Stenger and [[Christopher Hitchens]].<ref>http://www.colorado.edu/philosophy/vstenger/battle.html</ref>   
  
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According to [[medical science]], there are a significant number of [[Physical and mental health related problems associated with obesity|physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight]].  In the late 1990s, Dennet had [[coronary artery bypass surgery]] (coronary artery bypass surgery reroutes blood around clogged [[artery|arteries]] to enhance [[blood]] flow and [[oxygen]] to the [[heart]]).<ref>http://www.edge.org/3rd_culture/dennett06/dennett06_index.html</ref><ref>http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4484</ref> In 2010, PZ Myers had health problems related to his heart.<ref>http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2010/08/thats_not_a_heart_its_a_flaili.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+scienceblogs%2Fpharyngula+%28Pharyngula%29&utm_content=Google+Reader</ref>
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Although the New Atheist leaders claim to be pro-science, 3 out of 5 of these [[atheism|atheist]] men have had issues with being overweight as can be seen [http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3UXl0oMYPLs/SXgxH_-MgFI/AAAAAAAAAF4/EU-wzxEjOmc/s1600-h/atheist-reason.jpg HERE] and [http://www.flickr.com/photos/7230309@N05/3708479160/ HERE] and [http://news.softpedia.com/newsImage/Quantum-Mechanics-Could-Link-Humans-with-the-Universe-2.jpg/ HERE]
  
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[[Hippocrates]] was an early advocate of the health benefits of [[exercise]] and [[nutrition]] (see also: [[Nutritional science]]).<ref>http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/pe/exs190web/exs190history.htm</ref> On the other hand, [[PZ Myers]] and a significant amount of other [[New Atheism]] leaders, seem to have demonstrated a lack of a full appreciation of the importance of [[nutritional science]], [[exercise science]] and the latest findings of [[medical science]] (see also [[Atheism and obesity]]}. As of May 2011, Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris have not publicly commented on the significant problems the New Atheism leadership has experienced in terms of overweight members.
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The [[Ex-atheists|ex-atheist]] [[Richard Dawkins]] has publicly indicated that he is an [[agnosticism|agnostic]] (see: [[Richard Dawkins and agnosticism]]). Since Dawkins is an an agnostic and not an atheist, this would mean that 3 out of 4 of the atheist founders of the New Atheism movement had excess weight issues. At a 75% of individuals overweight population, this would make the atheist founders of the New Atheist movement one of the most overweight populations in world history in terms of the percentage of people overweight.<ref>[http://www.infoplease.com/world/statistics/obesity.html Fattest Countries in the World]</ref><ref>[http://histowiki.com/2244/history/obesity-history-timeline/ The History Of Obesity Timeline]</ref>
  
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New Atheists are known for their vehement advocacy of the [[evolution|evolutionist]] [[pseudoscience]]. Also, given that [[Physical and mental health related problems associated with obesity|being overweight causes brain impairment]] and that Daniel Dennet has had issues with being overweight, it is ironic that Dennet's book ''Consciousness Explained'' is beloved by those who deny [[God]] in favor of a [[pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] naturalist [[philosophy]] of the mind.<ref>
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For more information please see: [[Atheism and obesity]].  
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*[http://pn.psychiatryonline.org/content/41/18/25.1.full]
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*[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html]
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850]
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*[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm]
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/]</ref> <ref>http://www.truefreethinker.com/articles/old-material-dennett-and-mind</ref><ref>http://creation.com/brain-chemistry-and-the-fate-of-the-personality-after-death</ref>
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== Theories of New Atheism leadership's problem with being overweight ==
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According to [[medical science]], there are a significant number of [[Physical and mental health related problems associated with obesity|physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight]]. 
  
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''See also:''  [[Theories of New Atheism leadership's problem with excess weight]] and [[Irreligion and superstition]]
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In the late 1990s, Dennet had [[coronary artery bypass surgery]] (coronary artery bypass surgery reroutes blood around clogged [[artery|arteries]] to enhance [[blood]] flow and [[oxygen]] to the [[heart]]).<ref>http://www.edge.org/3rd_culture/dennett06/dennett06_index.html</ref><ref>http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4484</ref>  In 2003, a [http://www.ted.com/talks/dan_dennett_on_our_consciousness.html a video] at Ted was published featuring an overweight Daniel Dennett.  In 2013, [http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/07/08/daniel-dennett-new-atheism-has-changed-the-face-of-america/ a video] embedded on a ''The Raw Story'' article featured an overweight Daniel Dennett. 
  
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[[File:11834504 3cc3c49559.jpg|180px|right|thumbnail|Two of the major risk factors for becoming [[obesity|obese]] according to the [[Mayo Clinic]] are poor dietary choices and inactivity.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/obesity/DS00314/DSECTION=causes</ref> According to the [[Gallup Organization]], "Very religious Americans are more likely to practice healthy behaviors than those who are moderately religious or nonreligious."<ref>http://www.gallup.com/poll/145379/Religious-Americans-Lead-Healthier-Lives.aspx</ref>
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Furthermore, a majority of New Atheist leaders have engaged in unhealthy healthy habits (see: [[New Atheism leaders and unhealthy lifestyles]]).  
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<small>(photo obtained from [http://www.flickr.com/photos/wader/11834504/ Flickr], see [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/deed.en license agreement])</small> ]]
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According to the [[Gallup Organization]], "Very religious Americans are more likely to practice healthy behaviors than those who are moderately religious or nonreligious."<ref>http://www.gallup.com/poll/145379/Religious-Americans-Lead-Healthier-Lives.aspx</ref> 
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Gallup  declared concerning the study which measured the degree to which religiosity affects health practices: "[[Generalized linear model]] analysis was used to estimate marginal scores all five reported metrics after controlling for age (in years), gender, race/ethnicity, marital status, education (number of years), log of income, and region of the country... Results are based on telephone interviews conducted as part of the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index survey Jan. 2-July 28, 2010, with a random sample of 554,066 adults, aged 18 and older, living in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, selected using random-digit-dial sampling."<ref>http://www.gallup.com/poll/145379/Religious-Americans-Lead-Healthier-Lives.aspx</ref>
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== PZ Myers ==
  
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The Gallup study gives some insight into the above average health habits of the very religious and not necessarily the health habits of [[atheism|atheists]].  The reason is that the Gallup organization defines a non-religious as a person where "Religion is not an important part of daily life and church/synagogue/mosque attendance occurs seldom or never. This group constitutes 29.7% of the adult population."<ref>http://www.gallup.com/poll/145379/Religious-Americans-Lead-Healthier-Lives.aspx</ref> While many [[Western World|Western]] atheists are non-religious, not all non-religious people are atheists.  
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[[PZ Myers]] is also a leader within the New Atheism movement who is an associate professor of biology at the University of Minnesota at Morris. In addition, he has a blog entitled [[Pharyngula (blog)|Pharyngula]].  [[PZ Myers|Myers has had problems with being overweight]] as can be seen [http://gaylejordan.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/dsc02944.jpg HERE] and [https://www.flickr.com/photos/biofortified/4681215568/in/photolist-88Esif-73z2v4-5VC3RT-5VGB9h-5VC96t-5VGjGG-5VCad4-5VG8Cf-5VFSHf-5VBTTt-5VCkja-5VCcrz-5VGhYC-5VBRW6-5VGbwj-5VChY4-5VC6cF-5VBP3F-5VGzNS-5VG7Xo-5VC7Dv-5VC1KP-5VG9g3-6QF6YC-6NEVMU-5VCRQz-6NEXn5-6NEXcY-6NEX5A-5VCWRH-5VHfGo-5VD4uR-5VH4yU-5VDdTM-5VCFQV-5VDbCP-5VCAQa-5VCnb2-5VCJ9n-5VHwkm-5VGSeu-5VCrQe-5VH2mJ-5VCZRr-5VHFSL-5VHrsA-5VGZyS-5VCQw4-5VGKXW-5VHoaN HERE] and [https://flic.kr/p/8ZpQv6 HERE].  
  
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Gallup further declares:
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In 2010, PZ Myers had health problems related to his heart.<ref>http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2010/08/thats_not_a_heart_its_a_flaili.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+scienceblogs%2Fpharyngula+%28Pharyngula%29&utm_content=Google+Reader</ref>
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{{cquote|Very religious Americans make healthier choices than their moderately religious and nonreligious counterparts across all four of the Healthy Behavior Index metrics, including smoking, healthy eating, and regular exercise. Smoking is one area of particular differentiation between the very religious and less religious Americans, with the nonreligious 85% more likely to be smokers than those who are very religious.<ref>http://www.gallup.com/poll/145379/Religious-Americans-Lead-Healthier-Lives.aspx</ref>}}
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From a medical perspective, an [[obese]] person has accumulated enough body fat that it can have a negative effect on their health. If a person's weight is at least 20% higher than it should be, he/she is generally considered obese. If your [[Body Mass Index]] (BMI) is between 25 and 29.9 you are considered overweight. If your BMI is 30 or over you are considered obese.<ref>http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/info/obesity/</ref>  The term obese can also used in a more general way to indicate someone who is overweight.<ref>http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/obesity?show=0&t=1293887890</ref>  
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On June 1, 2011, Myers posted a picture of himself and others on his blog and Myers appeared to no longer have issues with being overweight.<ref>http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/06/the_final_tally_on_the_camp_qu.php</ref>  However, on February 13, 2013, a video was posted to YouTube entitled, ''Is church harmful?'' and Myers appeared to have put on weight subsequent to his June 1, 2011 picture.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grwcUgEViOo ''Is church harmful?'' - Michael & Rhonda Jones, PZ Myers], Published on Feb 10, 2013 by YouTube account kaine diatheke</ref> In addition, a picture taken in 2014 features an overweight PZ Myers.<ref>[https://www.flickr.com/photos/gruts/14904166182/in/photolist-D4eT1T-sGxAz4-ruzFxj-iqRgAh-fQN82k-tz1p97-oqznxw-oH2Kms-oF2JGs-oqz9BS-oqz9fE-oqyZdn-oGMQtt-oGMQdP-oGMPyc-oqyKQw-oF2FT1-oH4vr2-oqyJXQ-oqz63Y-oqyVVR-oG7waJ-nWjtyR-nkHxxA-ekAZzi-dKuHL9-ekAZoz-egKaMi-ebQPPA-e8qkXB-dYUxZA-dYDWHy-dYyeiT-dUZNLQ-dyGPn7-dyGPhW-dyGNjU-dyGNfG-dyBk58-dtGPhq-detTjF-dabS2Z-dabRXQ-cNf3PS-cNf3qq-cNeuKu-cNeuqC-cAgJvb-bUMdpQ-bUMctb PZ Myers, FCD, Maureen Brian, FCD, & Richard Carter, FCD]</ref>
  
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Two of the major risk factors for becoming [[obesity|obese]] according to the [[Mayo Clinic]] are poor dietary choices and inactivity, thus given the above cited Gallup research, it appears as if non-religious are more prone to becoming [[obese]] than very religious individuals.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/obesity/DS00314/DSECTION=causes</ref> The Bible declares that [[gluttony]] is a sin.<ref>http://www.gotquestions.org/gluttony-sin.html</ref> Furthermore, the Bible declares the physical body of Christians to be temples of the [[Holy Spirit]].<ref>http://carm.org/christianity/sermons/1-corinthians-619-20-your-body-his-temple</ref> Another example of strongly held religious beliefs affecting behavior in terms of the avoidance of sins and health problems is that [[Religious Upbringing and Culture Affects Rates of Homosexuality|religious upbringing and culture affects rates of homosexuality]] and there are a [[homosexuality and health|number of diseases which homosexuals have higher incidences of]].  For example, homosexuality is rare among [[Orthodox Jews]] and even the [[liberal]] researcher [[Alfred Kinsey]] noted the rarity of homosexuality within the Orthodox Jewish community.<ref>http://www.mygenes.co.nz/PDFs/Ch6.pdf</ref> Therefore, it is not surprising that many very religious Christians and other religious groups which incorporate healthy beliefs and practices within their religion would leave healthier lives.
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=== Vox Day on the issue of atheism and obesity ===
  
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== New Atheism, being overweight/obese and psychological issues ==
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''See also:'' [[Overweight atheist PZ Myers posing with some young overweight fans]]
  
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''See also:'' [[Psychological explanations for New Atheism leadership obesity]] and [[Theories of New Atheism leadership's problem with excess weight]]  
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In 2011, the [[theism|theist]] [[Vox Day]] had an individual complain about the notion that the atheist community has a problem with obesity (Please see: [[Atheism and obesity]]). As a result, on May 19, 2011, Vox Day released a blog post entitled ''Mailvox: now, who said atheists are fat?'' where 80% of the people taking a picture with PZ Myers were overweight and PZ Myers was overweight in the picture as well as can be seen [http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/05/16/at-least-you-can-see-a-hint-of/ HERE].<ref>[http://voxday.blogspot.com/2011/05/mailvox-now-who-said-atheists-are-fat.html MailVox: Who said atheists are fat?].</ref>  The picture was originally posted on PZ Myer's blog [[Pharyngula (blog)|Pharyngula]] by Myers on May 16, 2011 and an online argument quickly ensued concerning the appearance of the photograph's participants.<ref>[http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/05/16/at-least-you-can-see-a-hint-of/ At least you can see a hint of what you missed
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Posted by PZ Myers on May 16, 2011]</ref>
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[[Image:CMpix1.JPG|thumb|300px|During his visit to the [[Creation Museum]], [[PZ Myers]] had noticeably greater difficulty than others climbing on and off a [[dinosaur]] model due to the fact that he was overweight and out of shape.[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQQl2TMrgbM VIDEO] ]]
  
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[[File:Hand and cookies.jpg|thumbnail|right|245px|Obesity is positively associated with [[neuroticism]], impulsiveness, and lower [[self-control|self-discipline]].<ref>
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=== An overweight PZ Myers and Creation Museum buffoonery ===
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18549987]
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19433123]
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''See also:'' [[Essay: PZ Myers embarrasses himself at the Creation Museum|PZ Myers embarrasses himself at the Creation Museum]] - [[satire]]  
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*[http://www.wellspringcamps.com/obesity_research.html]
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</ref> In addition, many people overeat in response to negative [[emotion]]s such as [[depression]], [[anger]], [[anxiety]] and boredom.<ref>
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In August 2009, Myers led a group of over 300 atheist and agnostic students on a tour of the [[Creation Museum]].<ref>[http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/story?id=8280168 "Creation Museum: Is This How World Began?" (ABC News)]</ref> During the visit, Myers had noticeably greater difficulty than others climbing on and off a dinosaur model due to the fact that he was overweight and out of shape.[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQQl2TMrgbM VIDEO]  In addition, the purpose of the dinosaur model is clearly for children to sit on for photographs.<ref>http://blogs.answersingenesis.org/aroundtheworld/2009/08/16/children-and-the-creation-museum/</ref><ref>[http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/53237252.html "A firebrand visits Creation Museum" (Minneapolis Star-Tribune)]</ref> Myers donned a borrowed cowboy hat and was egged on by the cheers and laughter of the students.<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQQl2TMrgbM</ref>
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21174323]
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*[http://www.obesitypsychiatry.com/id2.html]
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=== PZ Myers' ironic speech at the 2010 Global Atheist Convention ===
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17262813]</ref>
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''See also:'' [[Atheism and brain function]]
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At the 2010 Global atheist Convention, an overweight PZ Myers likened belief in God to a brain infection plus made the blanket statement that religion makes people stupid and/or do stupid stupid things.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfXbnygJirc PZ Myers - Global Atheist Convention 2010]</ref>  As noted above, according to [[medical science]], being overweight causes brain impairment.<ref>
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*[http://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/newsarticle.aspx?articleid=110328 Obesity Linked to Changes In Cognitive Patterns, Psychiatric News, Joan Arehart-Treichel, Clinical and Research News, September 15, 2006]
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*[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink: The obese and overweight have less neurological tissue, study finds, U.S News & World Report August 25, 2009]
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850 Western diet consumption and cognitive impairment: links to hippocampal dysfunction and obesity, Physiol Behav. 2011 Apr 18;103(1):59-68. Epub 2010 Dec 16.]
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*[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm Obesity Harms Women's Memory and Brain Function, Study Finds, Science Daily, July 15, 2010]
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/ Mental health, family function and obesity in African-American women, J Natl Med Assoc. 2005 April; 97(4): 478–482.]
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*[http://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/20061101/obesity-alzheimers-risk Obesity and Alzheimer's: High Insulin Levels Linked to Alzheimer's]
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*[http://thehealthage.blogspot.com/2009/08/obese-people-are-more-at-risk-to.html Obese people are more at risk of Alzheimer’s]
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*[http://www.alzheimersreadingroom.com/2011/05/obesity-in-middle-age-may-increase-risk.html Obesity in Middle Age May Increase Risk of Dementia]</ref>
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== Unhealthy lifestyle of the late, New Atheist Christopher Hitchens ==
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[[Image:Hitchens,_Stanford.jpg‎ |right|thumb|200px|[[Christopher Hitchens]]]]
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[[Christopher Hitchens]] was a leader in the [[New Atheism]] movement. A picture of an overweight Christopher Hitchens can be found [http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3UXl0oMYPLs/SXgxH_-MgFI/AAAAAAAAAF4/EU-wzxEjOmc/s1600-h/atheist-reason.jpg HERE] (see also: [[Atheism and obesity]]).
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=== Hitchen's heavy drinking and chain-smoking and esophageal cancer ===
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Christopher Hitchens was known for having a history of heavy drinking and chain-smoking.<ref>http://www.counterpunch.org/mccarthy02212003.html</ref><ref>[http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/08/17/christopher-hitchens-desp_n_685021.html Christopher Hitchens: Despite Cancer, I'd Drink & Smoke Again]</ref>  Christopher Hitchens was being treated for esophageal cancer likely caused by [[alcoholism|drinking]] and [[smoking]] up until his death on December 15, 2011.<ref>http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2010/08/07/video-extended-interview-hitchens-on-cancer-and-atheism/</ref><ref>[http://healthblog.ctv.ca/post/Why-did-Hitchens-continue-to-smoke-during-his-treatment.aspx Why did Hitchens continue to smoke & drink during treatment? -CTV News]</ref> Despite his esophageal cancer, when asked by interviewer Charlie Rose if in retrospect he would have engaged in heavy drinking and smoking knowing his present cancer condition, Hitchens said he think he would have done things the same.<ref>[http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/08/17/christopher-hitchens-desp_n_685021.html Christopher Hitchens: Despite Cancer, I'd Drink & Smoke Again]</ref>
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=== Hitchen's excess weight and increased risk of esophageal cancer ===
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As noted above, Hitchens also had problems with being overweight during his life (see also: [[Atheism and obesity]]).<ref>[http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3UXl0oMYPLs/SXgxH_-MgFI/AAAAAAAAAF4/EU-wzxEjOmc/s1600-h/atheist-reason.jpg Picture of an overweight Christopher Hitchens smoking a cigarette]</ref> According to the [[National Cancer Institute]], "[[obesity]] is associated with increased risks of cancers of the esophagus."<ref>[http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/obesity National Institute of Health - Obesity and Cancer Risk]</ref>
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==  American Atheists organization leadership's challenge with excess weight ==
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[[File:Jamila Bey.jpg|right|thumbnail|320px|[[Jamila Bey]]
 
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<small>(photo obtained from [http://www.flickr.com/photos/waytoocrowded/1899823572/ Flickr], see [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/deed.en license agreement])</small>]]
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<small>(photo obtained from [http://www.flickr.com/photos/39965300@N07/5649098297/ Flickr], see [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en license agreement])</small> ]]  
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Obesity is positively associated with impulsiveness, lower [[self-control|self-discipline]] and [[neuroticism]].<ref>
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''See also:'' [[Atheism and obesity]] and [[American Atheists and their challenges with overweight leadership personnel]]
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18549987]
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*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19433123]
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*[http://www.wellspringcamps.com/obesity_research.html]
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</ref> In addition, many people overeat in response to negative [[emotion]]s such as [[depression]], [[anger]], [[anxiety]] and boredom.<ref>http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21174323</ref><ref>http://www.obesitypsychiatry.com/id2.html</ref><ref>http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17262813</ref>
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New Atheism is known for its vitriolic and irrational denunciations of Christianity.<ref>http://leadercall.com/features/x1593289728/Angry-Atheists</ref><ref>http://blog.christianitytoday.com/ctliveblog/archives/2007/07/the_new_new_ath.html</ref> In addition, ''[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]'' magazine made the observation that atheists tend to be ""quarrelsome, socially challenged men and study of PZ Myers' [[Pharyngula (blog)|Pharyngula blog]] participants indicated similar results (Please also see: [[Atheism appears to be significantly less appealing to women]]).<ref>http://www.conservapedia.com/Pharyngula_%28blog%29</ref> In 2010, the [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] [[True Free Thinker|Mariano Grinbank]] wrote: "Scienceblogger [http://scienceblogs.com/principles/2008/04/the_cost_of_not_framing.php Chad Orzel described]  the commentators on PZ Myers ' Scienceblogs.com site Pharyngula, and other Scienceblogs.com commentators, as 'screechy monkeys'.<ref>http://www.truefreethinker.com/articles/pz-myers-and-pavlovs-monkeys</ref> In January of 2011, [[CNN]] reported: "People unaffiliated with organized religion, atheists and [[agnosticism|agnostics]] also report anger toward [[God]] either in the past, or anger focused on a hypothetical image - that is, what they imagined God might be like - said lead study author Julie Exline, Case Western Reserve University psychologist."<ref>http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2011/01/01/anger-at-god-common-even-among-atheists/</ref> Of course, given the [[Irreligion and superstition|irrationality of atheism]], it is not surprising that atheists are angry at God who is morally perfect.<ref>http://www.godisforus.com/information/worldview/god/perfection.htm</ref> Certainly anger cannot be ruled in terms of the high proportion of New Atheist leaders who have issues with being overweight.  
+
[[Madalyn Murray O'Hair]] was the founder of the [[American Atheists]] organization and she was overweight.<ref>http://www.flickr.com/photos/alan-light/229583104/</ref> One of the last pictures taken of Madalyn Murray O'Hair features her standing before a cake as can be seen [http://www.dallasobserver.com/content/printVersion/276262/ HERE].  The American Atheist organization is known for its strident, [[militant atheism]].  
  
−
In addition, [[Western World]] [[evolution|evolutionists]] and atheists often hold to irrational notions such as [[extraterrestrial life]], [[exobiology]], [[evolution]] and [[Origin of Life|abiogenesis]] which are anti-[[Bible|biblical]] ideas that are that are not supported by sound [[science]]. <ref>http://creation.com/did-god-create-life-on-other-planets</ref><ref>http://creation.com/origin-of-life-questions-and-answers</ref>  No doubt pseudoscientific and superstitious thinking in many cases is partly due to a lack of [[Self-control|self-discipline]] as rigorous scientific and logical thinking requires disciplined thought..<ref>http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/summary/102/6/855 On Scientific Thought</ref>
+
As of December 28, 2010, the pictures of the members of the American Atheists organization's board of directors showed a significant portion of its members having excess body weight.  Members of the American Atheists board of directors who were overweight as of December 28, 2010 included: [[Richard Andrews]], [[Blair Scott]], [[Monty Gaither]], and [[Ann Zindler]]. A picture of an overweight Richard Andrews can be found [http://nowscape.com/atheism/atheist_people.htm HERE].  A picture of an overweight Blair Scott can be found [http://www.atheists.org/image/about/BlairScott.jpg HERE]. A picture of an overweight Monty Gaither can be found [http://www.atheists.org/image/about/MontyGaither.jpg HERE]. A picture of an overweight Ann Zindler can be found [http://www.freethoughtnation.com/images/stories/annzindler1.jpg HERE].
  
−
As far as anxiety being a possible explanation of New Atheism having a high proportion of overweight leaders, [[Australia]]n online opinion writer and lecturer in ethics and philosophy at several Melbourne theological colleges, Bill Muehlenberg, in his essay ''The Unbearable Heaviness of Being (In a World Without God)'' declares:
+
On August 11. 2013, a new overweight member of their board of directors was listed - namely, [[Jamila Bey]].<ref>[http://www.atheists.org/about/Board_of_Directors American Atheists Board of Directors]</ref> A video of an overweight Jamila Bey can be seen [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uekUG0CDs-w HERE].
−
{{cquote|Announcing, and believing, that God is dead has consequences. And it is we who suffer the most for it. We cannot bear the whole universe on our shoulders. We were not meant to. We must let God be God. Only then can men be men. Only then can we find the way forward to be possible, and the burdens not insurmountable.<ref>http://www.billmuehlenberg.com/2008/05/26/the-unbearable-heaviness-of-being-in-a-world-without-god/</ref>}}
+
  
−
[[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] [[True Free Thinker|Mariano Grinkbank]] charges that PZ Myers often engages in mere emotional arguments, admits to criticizing the arguments of his opponents without reading their major works, and often [[strawman fallacy|tackles strawmen of this opponents arguments]] rather than seriously tackling them. Grinbank also points out that PZ Myers has never written a scholarly work defending atheism. For details, please see: [[Militant atheism and the intellectual slothfulness of PZ Myers]].
+
The current pictures of the American Atheists board of directors can be found [http://www.atheists.org/about-us/board-of-directors HERE].
  
−
[[File:Vox Day.jpg|thumbnail|right|160px|[[Vox Day]]]]
+
== Evolutionists who have had problems with being overweight and/or obese ==
−
=== Peer relationships ===
+
  
−
''See also:'' [[New Atheism leadership, excess weight and peer relationships]]
+
''See:'' [[Evolutionists who have had problems with being overweight and/or obese]]
−
 
+
−
Studies show that peer relationships can have a significant positive or negative influence on a person's behavior.<ref>http://cals-cf.calsnet.arizona.edu/fcs/bpy/content.cfm?content=peer_rel</ref> This has been known for some time and the Bible declares "bad company corrupts good morals" (1 Corinthians 15:33).  In addition, the saying "birds of a feather flock together" certainly has some validity. As noted above, two of the major risk factors for becoming [[obesity|obese]] according to the [[Mayo Clinic]] are poor dietary choices and inactivity which are certainly behavioral choices. <ref>http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/obesity/DS00314/DSECTION=causes</ref>
+
−
 
+
−
In 2011, [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] [[Vox Day]] had an individual complain about the notion that the atheist community has a problem with obesity (Please see: [[Atheism and obesity]]). As a result, on May 19, 2011, Vox Day released a blog post entitled ''Mailvox: now, who said atheists are fat?'' where 80% of the people taking a picture with PZ Myers were overweight and PZ Myers was overweight in the picture as well as can be seen [http://voxday.blogspot.com/2011/05/mailvox-now-who-said-atheists-are-fat.html HERE].  The picture was originally posted on PZ Myer's blog [[Pharyngula (blog)|Pharyngula]] by Myers on May 16, 2011 and an online argument quickly ensued concerning the appearance of the photograph's participants.<ref>http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/05/at_least_you_can_see_a_hint_of.php</ref>  In addition, compared to the very religious it does appear as if the atheist community has a problem with obesity (see: [[atheism and obesity]]).
+
  
 
== Physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight ==
 
== Physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight ==
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*[http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/obesity]
 
*[http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/obesity]
 
*[http://stanfordhospital.org/clinicsmedServices/COE/surgicalServices/vascularSurgery/patientEducation/varicose.html]</ref>  In addition, [[medical science]] research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.<ref>
 
*[http://stanfordhospital.org/clinicsmedServices/COE/surgicalServices/vascularSurgery/patientEducation/varicose.html]</ref>  In addition, [[medical science]] research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.<ref>
−
*[http://pn.psychiatryonline.org/content/41/18/25.1.full]
+
*[http://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/newsarticle.aspx?articleid=110328 Obesity Linked to Changes In Cognitive Patterns, Psychiatric News, Joan Arehart-Treichel, Clinical and Research News, September 15, 2006]
−
*[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html]
+
*[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink: The obese and overweight have less neurological tissue, study finds, U.S News & World Report August 25, 2009]
−
*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850]
+
*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850 Western diet consumption and cognitive impairment: links to hippocampal dysfunction and obesity, Physiol Behav. 2011 Apr 18;103(1):59-68. Epub 2010 Dec 16.]
−
*[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm]
+
*[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm Obesity Harms Women's Memory and Brain Function, Study Finds, Science Daily, July 15, 2010]
−
*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/]</ref>
+
*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/ Mental health, family function and obesity in African-American women, J Natl Med Assoc. 2005 April; 97(4): 478–482.]</ref>
−
[[Image:Cerebellum.png|right|thumb|240px|[[Medical science]] research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.<ref>
+
[[Image:Cerebellum.jpg|right|thumb|240px|[[Medical science]] research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.<ref>
−
*[http://pn.psychiatryonline.org/content/41/18/25.1.full]
+
*[http://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/newsarticle.aspx?articleid=110328 Obesity Linked to Changes In Cognitive Patterns, Psychiatric News, Joan Arehart-Treichel, Clinical and Research News, September 15, 2006]
−
*[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html]
+
*[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink: The obese and overweight have less neurological tissue, study finds, U.S News & World Report August 25, 2009]
−
*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850]
+
*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850 Western diet consumption and cognitive impairment: links to hippocampal dysfunction and obesity, Physiol Behav. 2011 Apr 18;103(1):59-68. Epub 2010 Dec 16.]
−
*[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm]
+
*[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm Obesity Harms Women's Memory and Brain Function, Study Finds, Science Daily, July 15, 2010]
−
*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/]</ref>]]
+
*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/ Mental health, family function and obesity in African-American women, J Natl Med Assoc. 2005 April; 97(4): 478–482.
 +
</ref>]]
 
   
 
   
 
According to the Mayo Clinic some of the symptoms associated with obesity can include:
 
According to the Mayo Clinic some of the symptoms associated with obesity can include:
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Concerning the issue of depression, [[Atheism and suicide|atheists do have higher rates of suicide than the general population.]]
 
Concerning the issue of depression, [[Atheism and suicide|atheists do have higher rates of suicide than the general population.]]
−
 
−
=== Obesity and Alzheimers disease ===
 
−
 
−
''See also:'' [[Obesity and Alzheimer's disease]]
 
−
 
−
[[File:PET Alzheimer.jpg|thumbnail|250px|right|A PET scan of the brain of an individual with Alzheimer's disease reveals a loss of function in the temporal lobe.]]
 
−
In 2005, WebMD published:
 
−
{{cquote|People with diabetes are at particularly high risk of [[Alzheimer's disease]]. But now there's strong evidence that people with high insulin levels -- long before they get diabetes -- already are on the road to Alzheimer's disease.
 
−
 
−
As the body becomes more and more overweight, it becomes more and more resistant to the blood-sugar-lowering effects of insulin. To counter this insulin resistance, the body keeps making more insulin...
 
−
 
−
'''Insulin Triggers Amyloid Buildup'''
 
−
 
−
High insulin levels are known to cause blood vessels to become inflamed....
 
−
 
−
One dangerous effect of this insulin-caused brain inflammation is increased brain levels of beta-amyloid. Beta-amyloid is the twisted protein that's the main ingredient in the sticky plaques that clog the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease.
 
−
 
−
"What was striking was the magnitude of the effect," Craft tells WebMD. "Inflammation can be a result of amyloid elevations but can also create an environment in which amyloid is made more readily. Inflammation can be both the result and cause of amyloid production."<ref>[http://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/20061101/obesity-alzheimers-risk Obesity and Alzheimer's: High Insulin Levels Linked to Alzheimer's]</ref>}}
 
−
 
−
A 2009 health report on a medical study indicated:
 
−
{{cquote|They compared the brain scan of 94 people in their 70s who were obese & overweight. They found that the obese had lost tissue in the frontal & temporal lobes areas critical for planning & memory. Declines were also seen in areas used for attention & executive functions, long term memory & movement
 
−
 
−
A neurologist Professor Paul Thompson said, “That's a big loss of tissue and it depletes your cognitive reserves, putting you at much greater risk of Alzheimer's and other diseases that attack the brain. But you can greatly reduce your risk for Alzheimer's if you can eat healthily and keep your weight under control.”M<ref>[http://thehealthage.blogspot.com/2009/08/obese-people-are-more-at-risk-to.html Obese people are more at risk of Alzheimer’s]</ref>}}
 
−
 
−
=== Health effects of Alzheimer's disease ===
 
−
[[File:Temporal lobe animation small.gif|thumb|right|200px|An animation of a human left [[temporal lobes|temporal lobe]] (right is side similar).
 
−
<br /><br />
 
−
<small>(photo obtained from [http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Temporal_lobe_animation_small.gif Wikimedia commons], see: [http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Temporal_lobe_animation_small.gif license agreement])</small>]]
 
−
[[Alzheimer's disease]] is "characterised by loss of neurons and synapses in the [[cerebral cortex]] and certain subcortical regions. This loss results in gross atrophy of the affected regions, including degeneration in the [[temporal lobes|temporal lobe]] and [[parietal lobe]], and parts of the frontal cortex and cingulate gyrus.<ref>http://www.news-medical.net/health/Neurodegeneration-in-Alzheimers-and-Parkinsons.aspx</ref> Some of the primary symptoms of alzheimer's disease are: memory problems, mood swings, emotional outbursts, brain stem damage which impairs function in the heart, lungs plus causes disruption of various other bodily processes.<ref>http://www.dementiacarecentral.com/node/559</ref>
 
−
 
−
An abstract of the medical study entitled ''Measures to Assess the Noncognitive Symptoms of Dementia in the Primary Care Setting'' by Brent P. Forester, M.D. and Thomas E. Oxman, M.D. inidcated "Noncognitive symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias include psychosis, mood disturbances, personality changes, agitation, aggression, pacing, wandering, altered sexual behavior, changed sleep patterns, and appetite disturbances. These noncognitive symptoms of dementia are common, disabling to both the patient and the caregiver, and costly."<ref>http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC419385/</ref>
 
−
 
−
According to the Center for Neuro Skills:
 
−
{{cquote|Kolb & Wishaw (1990) have identified eight principle symptoms of temporal lobe damage: 1) disturbance of auditory sensation and perception, 2) disturbance of selective attention of auditory and visual input, 3) disorders of visual perception, 4) impaired organization and categorization of verbal material, 5) disturbance of language comprehension, 6) impaired long-term memory, 7) altered personality and affective behavior, 8) altered sexual behavior.<ref>http://www.neuroskills.com/tbi/btemporl.shtml</ref>}}
 
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
  
 +
*[[Richard Dawkins and medical science]]
 +
*[[Atheism and leadership]]
 
*[[Atheism and obesity]]
 
*[[Atheism and obesity]]
 
*[[Psychology, obesity, religiosity and atheism]]
 
*[[Psychology, obesity, religiosity and atheism]]
−
*[[Atheism and Mental and Physical Health]]
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*[[Atheism and health]]
 
*[[Atheism and suicide]]
 
*[[Atheism and suicide]]
 
*[[Atheism and deception]]
 
*[[Atheism and deception]]
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*[[Overweight atheists comedy and satire]]
 
*[[Overweight atheists comedy and satire]]
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*[[Comedy and satires concerning atheism and evolution]]  (large collection of comedy/satire concerning [[atheism]] and [[evolution]])
+
*[[Essay:Comedy and satires concerning atheism and evolution|Comedy and satires concerning atheism and evolution]]  (large collection of comedy/satire concerning [[atheism]] and [[evolution]])
  
 
'''Other resources: '''
 
'''Other resources: '''

Revision as of 00:48, July 30, 2016

PZ Myers is a leader within the New Atheism movement.

(photo obtained from Flickr, see license agreement)

New Atheism is a form of militant atheism. The term New Atheism which first appeared in the November 2006 edition of Wired magazine, is frequently applied to a series of six best-selling books by five authors that appeared in the period between 2004–2008. These authors include Sam Harris, Daniel Dennett, Richard Dawkins, Victor J. Stenger and Christopher Hitchens.[1]

Although the New Atheist leaders claim to be pro-science, 3 out of 5 of these atheist men have had issues with being overweight as can be seen HERE and HERE and HERE

The ex-atheist Richard Dawkins has publicly indicated that he is an agnostic (see: Richard Dawkins and agnosticism). Since Dawkins is an an agnostic and not an atheist, this would mean that 3 out of 4 of the atheist founders of the New Atheism movement had excess weight issues. At a 75% of individuals overweight population, this would make the atheist founders of the New Atheist movement one of the most overweight populations in world history in terms of the percentage of people overweight.[2][3]

For more information please see: Atheism and obesity.

According to medical science, there are a significant number of physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight.

In the late 1990s, Dennet had coronary artery bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass surgery reroutes blood around clogged arteries to enhance blood flow and oxygen to the heart).[4][5] In 2003, a a video at Ted was published featuring an overweight Daniel Dennett. In 2013, a video embedded on a The Raw Story article featured an overweight Daniel Dennett.

Furthermore, a majority of New Atheist leaders have engaged in unhealthy healthy habits (see: New Atheism leaders and unhealthy lifestyles).

PZ Myers

PZ Myers is also a leader within the New Atheism movement who is an associate professor of biology at the University of Minnesota at Morris. In addition, he has a blog entitled Pharyngula. Myers has had problems with being overweight as can be seen HERE and HERE and HERE.

In 2010, PZ Myers had health problems related to his heart.[6]

On June 1, 2011, Myers posted a picture of himself and others on his blog and Myers appeared to no longer have issues with being overweight.[7] However, on February 13, 2013, a video was posted to YouTube entitled, Is church harmful? and Myers appeared to have put on weight subsequent to his June 1, 2011 picture.[8] In addition, a picture taken in 2014 features an overweight PZ Myers.[9]

Vox Day on the issue of atheism and obesity

See also: Overweight atheist PZ Myers posing with some young overweight fans

In 2011, the theist Vox Day had an individual complain about the notion that the atheist community has a problem with obesity (Please see: Atheism and obesity). As a result, on May 19, 2011, Vox Day released a blog post entitled Mailvox: now, who said atheists are fat? where 80% of the people taking a picture with PZ Myers were overweight and PZ Myers was overweight in the picture as well as can be seen HERE.[10] The picture was originally posted on PZ Myer's blog Pharyngula by Myers on May 16, 2011 and an online argument quickly ensued concerning the appearance of the photograph's participants.[11]

During his visit to the Creation Museum, PZ Myers had noticeably greater difficulty than others climbing on and off a dinosaur model due to the fact that he was overweight and out of shape.VIDEO

An overweight PZ Myers and Creation Museum buffoonery

See also: PZ Myers embarrasses himself at the Creation Museum - satire

In August 2009, Myers led a group of over 300 atheist and agnostic students on a tour of the Creation Museum.[12] During the visit, Myers had noticeably greater difficulty than others climbing on and off a dinosaur model due to the fact that he was overweight and out of shape.VIDEO In addition, the purpose of the dinosaur model is clearly for children to sit on for photographs.[13][14] Myers donned a borrowed cowboy hat and was egged on by the cheers and laughter of the students.[15]

PZ Myers' ironic speech at the 2010 Global Atheist Convention

See also: Atheism and brain function

At the 2010 Global atheist Convention, an overweight PZ Myers likened belief in God to a brain infection plus made the blanket statement that religion makes people stupid and/or do stupid stupid things.[16] As noted above, according to medical science, being overweight causes brain impairment.[17]

Unhealthy lifestyle of the late, New Atheist Christopher Hitchens

Christopher Hitchens

Christopher Hitchens was a leader in the New Atheism movement. A picture of an overweight Christopher Hitchens can be found HERE (see also: Atheism and obesity).

Hitchen's heavy drinking and chain-smoking and esophageal cancer

Christopher Hitchens was known for having a history of heavy drinking and chain-smoking.[18][19] Christopher Hitchens was being treated for esophageal cancer likely caused by drinking and smoking up until his death on December 15, 2011.[20][21] Despite his esophageal cancer, when asked by interviewer Charlie Rose if in retrospect he would have engaged in heavy drinking and smoking knowing his present cancer condition, Hitchens said he think he would have done things the same.[22]

Hitchen's excess weight and increased risk of esophageal cancer

As noted above, Hitchens also had problems with being overweight during his life (see also: Atheism and obesity).[23] According to the National Cancer Institute, "obesity is associated with increased risks of cancers of the esophagus."[24]

American Atheists organization leadership's challenge with excess weight

Jamila Bey

(photo obtained from Flickr, see license agreement)

See also: Atheism and obesity and American Atheists and their challenges with overweight leadership personnel

Madalyn Murray O'Hair was the founder of the American Atheists organization and she was overweight.[25] One of the last pictures taken of Madalyn Murray O'Hair features her standing before a cake as can be seen HERE. The American Atheist organization is known for its strident, militant atheism.

As of December 28, 2010, the pictures of the members of the American Atheists organization's board of directors showed a significant portion of its members having excess body weight. Members of the American Atheists board of directors who were overweight as of December 28, 2010 included: Richard Andrews, Blair Scott, Monty Gaither, and Ann Zindler. A picture of an overweight Richard Andrews can be found HERE. A picture of an overweight Blair Scott can be found HERE. A picture of an overweight Monty Gaither can be found HERE. A picture of an overweight Ann Zindler can be found HERE.

On August 11. 2013, a new overweight member of their board of directors was listed - namely, Jamila Bey.[26] A video of an overweight Jamila Bey can be seen HERE.

The current pictures of the American Atheists board of directors can be found HERE.

Evolutionists who have had problems with being overweight and/or obese

See: Evolutionists who have had problems with being overweight and/or obese

Physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight

See also: Atheism and Mental and Physical Health and Atheism and obesity

Some of the medical conditions associated with obesity include: type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and triglycerides, coronary artery disease (CAD), stroke, arthritis, cancer, sleep apnea, reproductive problems in women and varicose veins.[27] In addition, medical science research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.[28]

Medical science research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.[29]

According to the Mayo Clinic some of the symptoms associated with obesity can include:

“
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Snoring
  • Sleep apnea
  • Pain in your back or joints
  • Excessive sweating
  • Always feeling hot
  • Rashes or infection in folds of your skin
  • Feeling out of breath with minor exertion
  • Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
 ”

Concerning the issue of depression, atheists do have higher rates of suicide than the general population.

See also

Comedy and Satire:

Other resources:

v • d • e
Atheism
Atheism • Rebuttal • Morals • Academics • Quotes • Christianity • Debate • Evolution • Atheism and the suppression of science • Mass Murder • Communism • Atheist Shooters and Serial Killers • Mental and Physical Health • Miracles • Morality • Uncharitableness • Agnosticism • Deception • The Bible • The Problem of Evil • Agenda • Psychology • Population • Prison Statistics • Racism • Atheism and women • Brights Movement • Causes • Death Toll • Definitions • Evangelical atheist • Ex-atheists • Faith Freedom International • Godless: The Church of Liberalism‎ • Godless liberal • His Dark Materials • History • Liberalism • Militancy • New Atheism • Videos • Skeptics Annotated Bible • Strong atheism • The God Delusion • There Are No Atheists In Foxholes • Weak atheism 

Notes

  1. ↑ http://www.colorado.edu/philosophy/vstenger/battle.html
  2. ↑ Fattest Countries in the World
  3. ↑ The History Of Obesity Timeline
  4. ↑ http://www.edge.org/3rd_culture/dennett06/dennett06_index.html
  5. ↑ http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4484
  6. ↑ http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2010/08/thats_not_a_heart_its_a_flaili.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+scienceblogs%2Fpharyngula+%28Pharyngula%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
  7. ↑ http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/06/the_final_tally_on_the_camp_qu.php
  8. ↑ Is church harmful? - Michael & Rhonda Jones, PZ Myers, Published on Feb 10, 2013 by YouTube account kaine diatheke
  9. ↑ PZ Myers, FCD, Maureen Brian, FCD, & Richard Carter, FCD
  10. ↑ MailVox: Who said atheists are fat?.
  11. ↑ [http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/05/16/at-least-you-can-see-a-hint-of/ At least you can see a hint of what you missed Posted by PZ Myers on May 16, 2011]
  12. ↑ "Creation Museum: Is This How World Began?" (ABC News)
  13. ↑ http://blogs.answersingenesis.org/aroundtheworld/2009/08/16/children-and-the-creation-museum/
  14. ↑ "A firebrand visits Creation Museum" (Minneapolis Star-Tribune)
  15. ↑ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQQl2TMrgbM
  16. ↑ PZ Myers - Global Atheist Convention 2010
  17. ↑
  18. ↑ http://www.counterpunch.org/mccarthy02212003.html
  19. ↑ Christopher Hitchens: Despite Cancer, I'd Drink & Smoke Again
  20. ↑ http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2010/08/07/video-extended-interview-hitchens-on-cancer-and-atheism/
  21. ↑ Why did Hitchens continue to smoke & drink during treatment? -CTV News
  22. ↑ Christopher Hitchens: Despite Cancer, I'd Drink & Smoke Again
  23. ↑ Picture of an overweight Christopher Hitchens smoking a cigarette
  24. ↑ National Institute of Health - Obesity and Cancer Risk
  25. ↑ http://www.flickr.com/photos/alan-light/229583104/
  26. ↑ American Atheists Board of Directors
  27. ↑
  28. ↑
  29. ↑
  30. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/obesity/DS00314/DSECTION=symptoms
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