Philosophers' Cafe: Can we promote health without reinforcing weight stigma? - November 11th

The next Philosophers' Cafe will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 7 pm at Brewery Nønic. Will the topic be Can We Promote Health Without Reinforcing Weight Stigma? The moderator will be Dr. Greg Ruegsegger, Associate Professor of Health and Human Performance at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls

Body weight is often treated as evidence not only of health, but also of a person’s choices, self-discipline, and responsibility. But what does body size actually tell us about a person? When does concern about health become judgment, and can health risks be discussed without reinforcing harmful stereotypes? Beginning with research on weight bias, this conversation will explore why body size carries moral meaning, how we assign responsibility for health, and whether health promotion can respect the dignity, autonomy, and experiences of people across the weight spectrum.

Philosophers’ Cafés are public forums held at local pubs and coffee shops where community members engage in open, friendly, and respectful dialogue in a relaxed, informal setting. Meetings are led by faculty from the Universities of Wisconsin with topics ranging from traditional philosophical problems to pressing contemporary ethical issues.

Everyone is welcome to attend. A diversity of views and approaches is encouraged, and no formal training in philosophy (or anything else) is required – just an interest in good questions and good conversation.

From the UW-Stout website.