David Cameron wants the obese to feel worthless. So much for his big society | Carl Cederström

Those who would like to see themselves as morally superior on the basis of their waistline are now given free licence to express their disgust for the fat

There is no longer any doubt: we are unhealthily obsessed with health. We live in a society where to be healthy is not simply about wanting to avoid illness. It is a way of demonstrating your moral worth.

Attending a spinning class in the early morning is crucial, not because it will make you healthier, but because it will convince the rest of the world, and hopefully yourself, that you are not one of “them”.

Related: David Cameron calls on obese to accept help or risk losing benefits

A way to cope with the demand to be healthy, and the unpleasant guilt it entails, is to project it on to others

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