[DollarManSteve]

I too am not a fan of the 'genetics' argument for gross obesity.

Genetics would only contribute to the way the person's body reacts to the calories that are consumed. Yes, genetics may dictate that the person has some kind of glandular imbalance which contributes to a higher propensity to store fat- but all this means is that the person, knowing this, would need to control their eating patterns to compensate for this 'genetic' condition.

The undeniable reality is that it would be possible for morbidly obese people to NOT be that way - and you can chalk up their medical problem to whatever you want (a bad upbringing, depression, laziness, etc..) But the power to be thinner and healthier is not denied to these people - it is completely up to them if they want to make different choices. Unlike poverty or other things which may be out of people's control - the things that we choose to put in our bodies is our decision alone. Every time the fork is raised to the mouth it's a conscious choice. There is no circumstance that would deny any person the choice to eat less and eat differently and lose weight.

I could be 180lbs of ripped muscle if I wanted to - it would take about 2 years of working out and disciplined eating. I could do it if I wanted, but I choose not to make the time to do it and I am responsible for that choice. Why is an obese person not responsible for thier choices?