Final answer:
The author's viewpoint infers that fast food contributes to societal issues and while it offers convenience, it may lead to health and environmental problems, suggesting that option D is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on the provided text, the correct inference about the author's point of view is that fast food chains are connected to numerous societal ills, such as the U.S. obesity epidemic and the negative impact on the environment. There is no mention in the provided text about the author's opinion on the creativity of fast food advertisements, the claim that all Americans are suffering from depression due to fast food, or the cost factor being the only reason Americans eat fast food. Instead, the provided text points out the convenience aspect and the unhealthy characteristics of fast food.
The most accurate inference based on the given information would be the author thinks that fast food eaters try to feel better by eating the food, but it only makes the matters worse. This is supported by the notion of fast food being an easy option for people like Abdul who is young, only slightly overweight, and finds it convenient, yet acknowledges that it might not be the healthiest choice. Furthermore, the allusion to societal issues such as obesity and environmental concerns suggests that the consumption of fast food exacerbates these problems.