ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces a moral dimension to obesity that is largely lacking in most other physical characteristics. The stigma of obesity entails three elements or aspects. Goffman distinguishes stigmata that manifest themselves in physical characteristics from stigma that appears as violations of notions of proper behavior and belief. He refers to physical stigma as 'abominations of the body the various physical deformities'. Some people modify their bodies in ways that elicit suspicion, stigma, and condemnation. In addition to categorizing physical characteristics as deviant or undesirable, we also have to weigh whether these traits are acquired voluntarily or involuntarily. Obesity is a prime example of a deviant or undesirable physical characteristic. Obesity represents a prime example of an 'abomination of the body' that violates aesthetic standards. Physical deviants have challenged their demeaned status through political movements and demands for equal rights.
