The Social Chemist How the Far-Right hijacked the Wellness Movement w/ Dr. Stephanie Alice Baker
Sep 6, 2023
Join Dr. Stephanie Alice Baker, a Senior Lecturer in Sociology from the University of London specializing in medical misinformation, as she delves into the origins and evolution of the Wellness Movement in the U.S. Discover how far-right ideologies have infiltrated wellness culture and the rise of micro-celebrities who profit from misinformation. Dr. Baker underscores the critical need for reliable health advice amidst rising distrust in institutions and explores the perilous overlap of spiritual seekers and conspiracy theories. A must-listen for anyone navigating health information today!
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Origins of the Wellness Movement
- The wellness movement started with doctors who expanded health beyond absence of illness to include spiritual and mental well-being.
- This holistic view laid the foundation for integrating wellness into healthcare and social perspectives.
Commercialization of Wellness
- Wellness evolved from a movement into a commercialized industry over 50 years.
- Initially driven by passion, it later became integrated with fitness, workplace wellness, and celebrity culture for profit.
Balance of Responsibility in Wellness
- Early wellness pioneers balanced personal responsibility with environmental influences on health.
- Modern wellness often overemphasizes personal accountability, sometimes ignoring structural factors.
