"To combat obesity, New York City wants to ban the sale of sodas or any other sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces (Majerol 1)." In the article, "Sugar Wars," by Veronica Majerol, I learned about the sugar ban that Mayor Michael Bloomberg wants to impose on all New Yorkers. This is causing much controversy because many people believe that they should have the right to choose what they drink, even if they choose badly. The government wants to ban sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces because it is an effort to help prevent obesity, diabeties, heart disease and many other fatal medical conditions. Some people think that these drink sizes shouldn't be banned because there are many other factors that contribute to health problems.
According to Zara Atal,a college student in New York, "If people want to drink 24 ounces, it's their decision."
According to Ronald Bayor, a professor at Columbia University, "How far should the government be able to go to protect us?" This makes me wonder how far the government can and will go to protect us. I think that it is good that they are trying to make New York healthier, because, according to the article, more than one third of all Americans are obese. On the other hand, I feel like that is unfair because America is a free country and Americans should be allowed to eat or drink whatever they want.
In this article, the author is trying to get you to side with the government. I can tell this because they gave a lot of evidence to support the government and the sugary drink ban, but a minimal amount to support going against the sugar ban.
After reading this article, I have formed the conclusion that even though the government is trying to help make the people of New York healthier, it goes against their Constitutional rights to ban something that millions of New Yorkers drink every day.
Works Cited:
Majerol, Veronica. "Sugar Wars." Upfront Magazine 17 Sept. 2012
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