The Surprising Connection Between Plastic and Posture: Lessons from a Forgotten Epidemic

Researchers like Rutgers University professor Phoebe Stapleton are working to understand the link between plastic and human health. With plastic being unavoidable in our modern world, it is important to uncover the potential risks it poses to our well-being. In the early 20th century, there was a posture panic that has since been largely forgotten. Scientists, influenced by Darwin’s theories of evolution, were concerned that America was facing a dangerous epidemic of slouching that could lead to the de-evolution of people. This prompted the country to launch campaigns encouraging proper posture, which permeated all aspects of culture at the time and has left lasting effects to this day. To learn more about this fascinating piece of history, we turn to Beth Linker, a professor of social science at the University of Pennsylvania and author of the book “Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America.”