An Edible History Of Humanity (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
I really liked this one. I highly recommend it to anyone, and especially to anyone with a highly polarized view of issues like GMOs, organic farming, and chemical fertilization. I don't expect it to sway anyone's opinion dramatically, but it's a good reminder of how none of these issues are simple. I felt that Standage did an excellent job of presenting the facts and theories, without pushing a political agenda, and without using the sensationalist language that usually surround such heavy topics.The history may not be as in-depth as some might hope, but as an overview of the human race's relationship with their environment and each other, and of how most of the significant events in human history can be traced to our relationship with food, it's a great read. This book was a wonderful read. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading non fiction for the pleasure of it. It was well written and fascinating.A Edible History starts before recorded history. Why did people choose to leave the life of the hunter gatherers and farm instead? What were the pros and cons?It covers topics from how people’s desire for spices sparked world exploration; how governments have used foods to control people in times of war and peace; the effects of specific food shortages such as the Irish potato famine; and how the current question of corn as food or fuel may impact our future.This book was interesting reading all the way through. I didn’t want to put it down.
What do You think about An Edible History Of Humanity (2009)?
Loved this extremely interesting take on the history of the world told through its food!
—hellojello
Not as exciting a read as is History of the World in 6 Glasses, but still fascinating
—brina1212
I liked the chapters about ancient history, the rest was academic blah.
—sibi
