1: What does Michael Pollan mean when he refers to the “Western diet”? Why does he believe Americans need to ‘’escape’’ from it. He refers to the Western diet as an unhealthy diet that Americans consume on daily basis. He describes it as ‘’fast, cheap, and easy.’’ He believes that people should stay away from this unhealthy diet since it has brought several diseases and health complications. 2: Pollan begins with ‘’they say,’’ citing a variety of scientific theories known as nutritionism. Summarize his response to these views. What is his objection to such views, and to the business and research interests that promote them? Pollan believes that several scientific theories of Western diet are conflicting with one another. He says that each scientist has their own theories and beliefs, which create conflict. He thinks the medical community and the research they have been conducting is not focused on alternative diets. Pollan believes they are not ‘’sensitive’’ to the whole food problem. (Pollan, 2008) The health care industry profits more with ‘’new drugs and procedures’’ ‘’than it does from a wholesale change in the way people eat.’’ (Pollan, 2008) 1: In what ways does Mary Marxfield disagree with Michael Pollan (pp.420-27) and other critics of the Western diet? What is her ‘’they …show more content…
How do you think Foer’s grandmother influenced his eventual embrace of vegetarianism? Throughout the essay, Fore’s grandmother serves as a reminder that the food we eat is symbolic and it demonstrates to others our beliefs, but most importantly to ourselves. At the end of the essay, Fore’s grandmother wouldn’t eat pork even to save her life. As stated, “If nothing matters, there’s nothing to save.’’ (Foer) I believe that these things influenced him to embrace vegetarianism once