The Body Is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love

Taylor shares how the publication of her book transformed the company culture of her publisher, Berrett-Koehler. Her editor, who was initially skeptical of her work, later realized that he had internalized years of body shame. He became her advocate within the organization and shifted the overall culture of the publisher.

Taylor overviews ways to fight fatphobia, ableism, queerphobia, and transphobia. To counter these forces, Taylor advises that one begin by gently exploring existing beliefs. She then recommends familiarizing oneself with individuals from marginalized communities and the activists there who are already fighting for justice. She also advises taking action in one’s daily life, noticing these “isms” and countering them as they arise.

Taylor asserts that change is not possible without risk and that when one’s body is considered the default body of society, one is not required to risk anything. She poses a question to the reader, asking what the world might look like if people with more privileged bodies were to help take on some of the risk that is put on marginalized bodies.

She asserts that there are small, mundane ways in which everyone can interrupt body-based oppression. These instances, when they arise, may cause discomfort, but that risk is worthwhile.