Rachel Hollis Part 2: Girl, Start Apologizing

Body Positivity

Rachel Hollis's views on body positivity have sparked significant controversy, particularly her comments on weight and health. Michael Hobbes and Aubrey Gordon discuss how Rachel's remarks often perpetuate fat phobia, highlighting a passage from her book that is criticized for its context and content 1. Aubrey points out that Rachel's approach to body positivity seems to focus on personal insecurities rather than the broader impact of her words on others 2.

I also believe that humans were not made to be out of shape and severely overweight. I think we function better mentally, emotionally, and physically when we take care of our bodies with nourishment water and exercise.

--- Aubrey Gordon

This perspective, they argue, fails to consider the diverse experiences and challenges faced by individuals struggling with body image issues.

   

Privilege Impact

Rachel Hollis's privilege significantly influences her perspectives, often leading to criticism for her lack of awareness. Michael Hobbes and Aubrey Gordon explore how Rachel's narratives about overcoming obstacles often ignore structural barriers faced by many 3. Her advice to "choose happiness" is particularly problematic, as it overlooks the complexities of mental health and socio-economic challenges 4.

There's a good review of her book by a woman named Kaitlyn Luckow who talks about reading it as somebody with clinical depression. She's talking about how Rachel Hollis is one of her big things is choose happiness.

--- Michael Hobbes

This criticism underscores the disconnect between Rachel's privileged position and the realities of those she claims to inspire.