NO SUCH THING 7-footers & the case for universal healthcare
Jun 17, 2025
This week, Barry Bogin, an anthropologist focusing on human growth, joins the discussion alongside other guests to explore a fascinating statistic: just 17% of 7-foot American men end up in the NBA. They delve into the rarity of extreme height and its effects on opportunities, societal perceptions, and even dating. The conversation takes an intriguing turn towards promoting universal healthcare, emphasizing its benefits for overall development. Expect insightful anecdotes and compelling links between health, genetics, and athletic success.
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Height Influenced by Stress and Society
- Height is influenced not just by genetics and nutrition but also by social, economic, and emotional factors.
- Chronic stress can impede growth even if nutrition is adequate.
Genetics Dominate Height Variations
- Height variation within populations is largely controlled by genetics.
- Nutrition impacts growth but plays a minimal role in height variation on a population level.
Life as a Seven-Footer
- Tom Breihan shared that being seven feet tall made him memorable but challenging for daily life.
- He described difficulties with fitting in planes and shopping for clothes, despite positive social perceptions.
