Anthropology Magazine
Video / Decoded

Fat Gets No Respect (But That Should Change)

In this original animated video, anthropologists help reveal the surprising story of fat in the human body and in cultures around the world.

Every human has it. But nearly every human society sees it differently. Fat. What purpose does it serve?

In this video, a collaboration between SAPIENS and Aeon, anthropological research helps explain why human babies are so chubby and explore how cultures across the globe and through time view fat as good and bad, ugly and beautiful.

Animated and directed by Ermina Takenova

Written by Nicola Williams

Producer: Kellen Quinn

Associate Producer: Adam D’Arpino

Sound Design: Adam D’Arpino and Eli Cohn

Background Research: Steve Nash, Morgan Hoke, and Eileen Anderson-Fye

SAPIENS Editors: Amanda Mascarelli, Christine Weeber, Daniel Salas, and Chip Colwell

Republish

We’re glad you enjoyed the article! Want to republish it?

This article is currently copyrighted to SAPIENS and the author. But, we love to spread anthropology around the internet and beyond. Please send your republication request via email to editor•sapiens.org.

Accompanying photos are not included in any republishing agreement; requests to republish photos must be made directly to the copyright holder.

Love our work?
Your support keeps SAPIENS accessible to all.
STAY CONNECTED
Get our Friday newsletter with new stories—and context about our world through anthropology.
NEW SEASON!
Podcast Season 6
Republish

We’re glad you enjoyed the article! Want to republish it?

This article is currently copyrighted to SAPIENS and the author. But, we love to spread anthropology around the internet and beyond. Please send your republication request via email to editor•sapiens.org.

Accompanying photos are not included in any republishing agreement; requests to republish photos must be made directly to the copyright holder.

Love our work?
Your support keeps SAPIENS accessible to all.
STAY CONNECTED
Get our Friday newsletter with new stories—and context about our world through anthropology.
NEW SEASON!
Podcast Season 6