Obesity is a problem in many nations across the world, however in the United States is an epidemic. The Resident asks citizens and visitors of New York City, how did this happen?
Most Americans are optimistic for a financial turnaround and expect the US economy to rebound. However, England and the European Union aren't convinced and remain pessimistic about a recovery. Michel Chossudovsky from the Center for Research on Globalization says that most Europe countries are functional welfare states. They have public healthcare, pension funds as opposed to the US that does not and most of the services are privatized.
In the 24/7 cable news media cycles, mainstream channels are doing everything to attract viewers and beat their competitors. As a result, many non-stories are dressed up with dramatic music and flashy graphics to portray drama, fear and capture the attention of American viewers. On a regular basis, in breaking news situations, channels get the facts wrong and make bold connections with little or no evidence. Just last week, Fox News reported that a UFO was flying over NYC. Hours later, it turns out the mysterious object was in fact a balloon.
Across much of Europe there is skepticism and panic about the economy ever turning around, however in the United States people seem to be optimistic. Why is there such pessimism in Europe but not the US? Are Americans out of touch with reality? Economist Max Fraad Wolff from The New School says Americans have a weak safety net when it comes to employment, if you lose your job there are no federal benefits that are available in Europe.
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