Monday, July 30, 2018

Natural Causes


Natural Causes: An Epidemic of Wellness, the Certainty of Dying, and Killing Ourselves to Live Longer
by Barbara Ehrenreich
Twelve, 2018.  234 pgs. Nonfiction

Why do we age and how can we stop it?  These are two questions that our society is trying to answer in a myriad of ways.  Ehrenreich has written of her exploration of the topic comparing quality of life with longevity.  How hard are we willing to work to live forever?  The author is very critical of preventative-care screenings that can lead to unnecessary worry and medical intervention.  She also attacks the “cult of wellness” and the tendency the wealthy have to look down on the less advantaged who may not have the time or resources to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.

Ehrenreich is a wonderful writer and presents her somewhat scientific summary in a very understandable manner.  I will admit that my favorite part of the book was the cover, but I still enjoyed the opportunity to evaluate my own theories on health and wellness.  This is a short but entertaining look at the state of American Health, perfect for readers who want something a little lighter than Atul Gawande’s Being Mortal.

CG

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