To the Point
Insatiable Appetites in a Culture of 'More'
It's traditional on Thanksgiving to eat more than we need, but we do that most of the time, as obesity statistics prove. Does the remedy lie in controlling one's environment?
By Warren Olney • • 50m ListenThis isn't the only day that Americans eat too much and, even in the aftermath of the Great Recession, we're buying too much, too. We hear that over-consumption is a feature not just of our culture, but of our psychology. We're wired for it. Does the remedy lie in taking control of one's own environment? Also, holiday travel: long security lines, carry-on bags and the cost of TSA screening. On Reporter's Notebook, even advocates admit it sounds hokey, but practicing gratitude is one way to make yourself happy.
US Army photo by Edward N. Johnson
In this episode
3 storiesHoliday Travel: Security Lines, Carry-Ons and Costly TSA Screening
The Transportation Security Administration "has lost its way" according to a committee of Congress, in a report concluding that the TSA needs reform. The US Travel Association says the thing that bugs passengers most is people who bring too many carry-on bags through security.
Read the story7 minOverconsumption: The American Way
This is the holiday when gluttony is not just acceptable, it’s almost required if you try to taste everything on the Thanksgiving table. But ask yourself: is this the only time you eat more than you ought to? Obesity is a national epidemic, and over-consumption of another kind is on the rise.
Read the story35 minWhy Gratitude Leads to Happiness
The Declaration of Independence says we're all entitled to "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." How is happiness measured… and how can it best be pursued? We speak with a woman who says she knows at least one way: gratitude.
Read the story8 min
