Summary and Response Essay: “Don’t Blame the Eater” by David Zinczenko
Summary and response essay “dont blame the eater” new york times. Start by picking an article to write about. Figure out what the author's main thesis is. Then, write an introduction about the article that ends with your own thesis, which will be whether or not you agree with the author. Your second paragraph should be an unbiased summary of the article. The rest of your essay should be a direct response to different parts of the article (quoted or paraphrased in MLA format), using examples from your own life as support for your position.
Summary and Response Essay: “Don’t Blame the Eater” by David Zinczenko
Introduction
In his article “Don’t Blame the Eater,” published in The New York Times, David Zinczenko presents his argument regarding the responsibility of fast food companies in the rise of obesity among young people. The author’s main thesis is that fast food companies are to blame for the increasing rates of obesity due to their lack of nutritional information and affordable healthy alternatives. In this essay, I will provide an unbiased summary of the article before presenting my own thesis on whether I agree or disagree with Zinczenko’s viewpoint.
Summary of the Article
In “Don’t Blame the Eater,” Zinczenko discusses the challenges faced by today’s youth in finding healthy food options amid the prevalence of fast food chains. He argues that fast food companies target young people through aggressive marketing tactics and fail to provide nutritional information about their products. Furthermore, he highlights the limited availability of healthier alternatives compared to the convenience and affordability of fast food options.
Zinczenko shares his personal experience as a teenager who relied heavily on fast food due to its accessibility and affordability. He expresses concern over the lack of nutritional education provided in schools and the difficulty for teenagers to make informed choices about their diet. He also criticizes the absence of warning labels on fast food products, similar to those found on cigarette packages, to alert consumers about the potential health risks.
Response to the Article
I partially agree with Zinczenko’s argument that fast food companies bear some responsibility for the rise in obesity rates among young people. However, I believe that individuals also have a role to play in making informed choices about their diet and lifestyle. While it is true that fast food companies heavily market their products to target young people, ultimately, individuals have agency in deciding what they consume.
It is essential for fast food companies to provide transparent nutritional information about their products, as Zinczenko suggests. By doing so, consumers can make more informed choices based on their dietary needs and preferences. However, relying solely on fast food companies to offer healthier alternatives may not be a practical solution. Individuals should also take personal responsibility for their health by seeking out and choosing healthier options available, even if they are not as easily accessible or affordable.
From my own experience, I have found that making healthier choices requires effort and conscious decision-making. While it may be tempting to opt for fast food due to its convenience and low cost, I have learned to prioritize my long-term health by planning meals in advance and seeking out healthier alternatives. By taking ownership of our own health, we can mitigate the impact of fast food marketing on our diet and overall well-being.
In conclusion, while I agree with Zinczenko that fast food companies should provide more nutritional information and healthier options, I believe that individuals should also take personal responsibility for their dietary choices. By making informed decisions and prioritizing our health, we can counteract the influence of fast food marketing and work towards a healthier lifestyle.