First of all: I never argued that thermodynamics were no part of it whatsoever (although that "mostly" is pretty dubious.)Angerwing said:Strictly? No. Mostly? Yes.
Please, enlighten us on what constitutes weight gain/loss if thermodynamics aren't so important.
Yes, just about anyone can crash-diet their way to a socially acceptable weight. Whether or not they'll actually be healthier just by virtue of losing weight is another question altogether.
Secondly: genetics and hormones also play into it.
In short: putting it down to "thermodynamics" is simply a way to dismiss anyone who's fat(ter than oneself) as guilty of the sins of Gluttony and Sloth, and therefore inferior. And yes, the medical industry does it as well. That's a failing on their part.