OnlineBookClub.org

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The American Culture Crisis" by Scott Pwctol.]

In today's world, many of us are noticing changes in how we eat and socialize, and we are also becoming more aware of rising health issues—both physical and mental. Even though I am not from the US, I share similar worries as I see the younger generation around me drawn to junk food and the excitement of dining out. With social media connecting us all, everything is making its way into different parts of the world. Hence, I was curious about what the author had to share regarding practical solutions to combat what I see as the vicious trio—unhealthy eating habits, lack of exercise, and misleading marketing that often convinces us that unhealthy choices are the norm and that there is nothing wrong with them. These tie into the interests of pharmaceutical companies, which seem to benefit because of our unhealthy lifestyle in the long run. That is why I believe The American Culture Crisis by Scott Pectol is a must-read for the present times.

The author begins by pointing out that although our parents had good intentions and did their best in inculcating healthy habits—like eating home-cooked and nourishing meals, spending time outdoors, and staying away from any form of drug and alcohol abuse—we at times rebelled against their teachings. We often gave in to peer pressure and cultural and societal trends. The fact that many parents did not follow the lifestyle they preached only made it easier for the younger generation to stray. Our busy work lives also pulled us further into unhealthy habits. The author draws our attention to the fact that while man has registered progress in science, technology, and medicine, stress and unhappiness are rising. Unfortunately, modern-day solutions focus on quick fixes through medications rather than spreading awareness about sustainable lifestyle changes. If you feel low and are not living life to the fullest due to poor health, this book is for you.

The book draws our attention to various aspects of our lives that make shifting to a healthier lifestyle appear overwhelming. We often choose these unhealthy options at the expense of our well-being due to the external influences that normalize them and even mock those who try to avoid them. Moreover, the lack of awareness about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle only deepens the decline into wrong practices.

The author examines several topics, including the Standard American Diet (SAD), and also helps us navigate the undesirable cultural and societal influences that encourage the use of alcohol and unhealthy foods. The suggestions don't feel forced as he presents enough instances to explain himself. The author also highlights how this simple yet crucial information is missing from the educational curriculum, where several other topics we seldom use find a place.

As you get into the flow of the chapters, you'll realize the short- and long-term costs of poor health, considering the emotional and financial burdens it creates for your future self and your family. The best part is that the suggested solutions are simple and implementable. One of the practical suggestions includes switching to home-cooked meals, which are healthier and cost-effective. The author also proposes closeness to nature, a hike, light exercise, reading, and meditation, and stresses reducing digital dependency. He assures an overall positive impact, and I concur with the author. The book has inspiring quotes and references to renowned authors and their titles.

Throughout the book, the author does not push strict rules but instead presents facts and consequences for the future. The author encourages building a mindset that keeps us from falling prey to societal expectations and focuses on long-term personal well-being. Anyone interested in improving their health would appreciate this book. The presence of profanity forces me to restrict this book to an adult audience. I did spot a few minor errors, but they did not interrupt my reading experience, confirming good editing. Considering I have nothing negative to state, I rate this highly informative book five out of five stars.

******
The American Culture Crisis
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

I learned from my grandparents, who all lived until their late 90s, that home cooked meals, daily physical activity, moderation in regard to alcohol, and minimizing stress contibuted to their long lives. When they were young, they lived through two world wars, the Great Depression, and often had to work 7 days a week. One of my granfathers retired when he was 75 years old, and the other when he was 87 due to a stroke. All this to say, that your review of this book points out facts that I grew up seeing. Great review of an educational and worthwhile book. Thank you!

This is indeed an important topic, especially these days with the acceleration of time and constant preoccupation, whether at work or study. Home-cooked meals are becoming less common and fast food is becoming easier with all the marketing and advertising.
Great review of a meaningful and useful book. Thank you for recommendation.

You clearly show the book's relevancy and sensible approach to lifestyle and health modifications. The discussion on societal influences and simple solutions makes it an insightful read. Nice review.

Gerry Steen wrote: ↑15 Feb 2025, 13:40 I learned from my grandparents, who all lived until their late 90s, that home cooked meals, daily physical activity, moderation in regard to alcohol, and minimizing stress contibuted to their long lives. When they were young, they lived through two world wars, the Great Depression, and often had to work 7 days a week. One of my granfathers retired when he was 75 years old, and the other when he was 87 due to a stroke. All this to say, that your review of this book points out facts that I grew up seeing. Great review of an educational and worthwhile book. Thank you!

Very true Gerry. To add to what you shared, life presented a fair share of challenges, but the family bonding was amazing, and the willpower of our parents and grandparents has been and is exemplary till now. Physically, mentally, and emotionally strong!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

Sarah Zain wrote: ↑16 Feb 2025, 03:09 This is indeed an important topic, especially these days with the acceleration of time and constant preoccupation, whether at work or study. Home-cooked meals are becoming less common and fast food is becoming easier with all the marketing and advertising.
Great review of a meaningful and useful book. Thank you for recommendation.

Very true Sarah. It is an important read in the current times considering declining overall well-being levels. A big percentage of these people seem to be preoccupied with unproductive activities like social media surfing and gaming.
Thanks a lot for sharing your thoughts.

Kelvin Omollo wrote: ↑16 Feb 2025, 12:54 You clearly show the book's relevancy and sensible approach to lifestyle and health modifications. The discussion on societal influences and simple solutions makes it an insightful read. Nice review.

Thanks, Kelvin for taking the time to read and share your comments. The author breaks down the topic so well to explain how many have not realized these strategies working against our health in the long run.

The author's practical solutions to combat unhealthy habits and the focus on simple lifestyle changes really resonate with me. The way it addresses both societal influences and personal well-being makes it feel relevant and accessible for anyone looking to make lasting improvements.

Have trained to maintain healthy eating and exercise habit my mother taught me, this book might come as a booster to me. Its a must read.

A refreshing take on how modern culture shapes our health, with practical solutions that actually make sense. It’s a wake-up call without being preachy.

In Italy, we have the Mediterranean diet, which is considered the best in the world by many experts. Despite that, many people choose unhealthy diets and regularly at at a fast food with bad consequences on their health. Sometimes, their jobs makes it much harder to eat healthy meals. This book can be very useful to people who want a healthier lifestyle. Thank you for your great review!

This book seems incredibly useful for anyone wanting to improve their lifestyle and combat unhealthy habits. The author's practical tips on diet, exercise, and resisting societal pressures make it a valuable read. Thank you for sharing this insightful review!

Wonderful review! Whatever you stated is unfortunately not limited to just America but is affecting everyone globally. The egregious stress at work, unhealthy food choices and lack of exercise due to insufficient time, leave alone mindless screen time and bad sleeping habits all speak of doom! I hope picking up this book makes people pause for a bit, be mindful about their choices and make conscious decisions that will benefit themselves and their family! It's time we quit the rat race and focused on living instead.

A thoughtful and timely read that highlights how modern culture normalizes unhealthy habits while offering simple, practical ways to take back control of our well-being.

NetMassimo wrote: ↑20 Feb 2025, 15:45 In Italy, we have the Mediterranean diet, which is considered the best in the world by many experts. Despite that, many people choose unhealthy diets and regularly at at a fast food with bad consequences on their health. Sometimes, their jobs makes it much harder to eat healthy meals. This book can be very useful to people who want a healthier lifestyle. Thank you for your great review!

Very true, Massimo. You have highlighted what is evident in metro cities here in India as well. Homes that continue within the joint family structure have a healthier setup in comparison to nuclear families or Double Income No Kids couples.
I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.