Why does Timothy Lang, a professor of food policy at City, University of London, think that "to emphasise individual responsibility is to completely miss the point of collective responsibility"?

 Professor Timothy Lang likely argues that focusing solely on individual responsibility ignores the bigger picture when it comes to food policy. Here's a breakdown of his potential reasoning:

• Structural Issues: Food choices are influenced by factors beyond individual control. These include:

  • Availability and affordability: Low-income areas may have limited access to fresh, healthy foods, while processed foods might be cheaper and more readily available.
  • Marketing and advertising: The food industry heavily markets unhealthy foods, making them more appealing, especially to children.
  • Food systems: Large-scale industrial agriculture and processing methods prioritize profit over nutrition.

• Collective Action Needed: Solving these issues requires collective action, not just individual willpower. Initiatives like:

  • Subsidies for healthy foods: Making healthy options more affordable and accessible.
  • Regulation of advertising: Limiting the marketing of unhealthy foods, especially to children.
  • Supporting sustainable agriculture: Encouraging practices that prioritize healthy food production and environmental well-being.

• Individual Responsibility Has Limits: While individuals can make healthy choices within their means, focusing solely on individual responsibility ignores the limitations imposed by the larger food system.

Professor Lang likely believes that promoting individual responsibility is a convenient way to avoid addressing the systemic issues that contribute to unhealthy eating habits. Collective action through policy changes and social movements is necessary for a more sustainable and healthy food system for everyone.

It's important to note that this is a likely interpretation based on Professor Lang's area of expertise. To get a more nuanced understanding of his views, you might try searching for his published works or interviews on food policy.