The present experience of Moscow's Iraqi client, Saddam Hussein, in putting down his internal insurrections has certainly added weight to such a calculation.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy

Unfortunately, the recent Journal of the American Medical Association publication analyzing life expectancy correlations to one imperfect calculation of relative weight (BMI, the body mass index) distracts readers all-too-eager to cling to its implications that being chubby is actually better.

FORBES: Obesity: The New 'Just Say No' For 2013

Upon reaching a speed known as V2 (a calculation based on thrust, weight aboard the plane, airport elevation and outside temperature), pull back on the yoke, and away you go.

FORBES: Magazine Article