Food and Philosophy: Eat, Think, and Be Merry

Food and Philosophy: Eat, Think, and Be Merry

Food & Philosophy offers a collection of essays which explore a range of philosophical topics related to food; it joins Wine & Philosophy and Beer & Philosophy in in the "Epicurean Trilogy." Essays are organized thematically and written by philosophers, food writers, and professional chefs. Provides a critical reflection on what and how we eat can contribute to a robust enjoyment of gastronomic pleasures - A thoughtful, yet playful collection which emphasizes the importance of food as a proper object of philosophical reflection in its own right “It turns out that not only have reputable psychologists at well-respected institutions done experimental studies on this effect, but it also serves as a kind of foul point for various philosophical questions. The works set out to address the intersection between philosophy and areas of everyday general concern: food, wine, and beer. In addition to straightforward philosophical discussions, the volumes include historical discussions, legal questions, some personal reflections.” ( Gastronomica , Fall 2008) “A truly well rounded view…and a critical reflection on what and how we eat can contribute to a robust enjoyment of gastronomic pleasures.” ( Gourmet Retailer ) “ Food & Philosophy : What a rare and brilliant book! Certainly chefs must be aware of precise technique, privy to the science behind cooking, and reverent of pristine and seasonal product. But now, more than ever, if a culinarian is even attempting to achieve greatness, he or she must be immersed in the basic premise of ‘Why we celebrate food!’ This profound work should be required reading, not just for those of us involved in the culinary arts, but for everyone interested in food.” –Charlie Trotter, Gourmet Chef “ Food & Philosophy offers tasty insight into the worlds of gastronomy and wisdom, and shows why these two ingredients are not mutually exclusive. Offering everything from ‘Vegetarianism and Dietary Choice’ to ‘Picky Eating is a Moral Failing,’ this book’s menu has something for everyone, and is bound to awaken your mind’s taste buds!” –Graham Elliot Bowles, Chef de Cuisine, Avenues “ Food & Philosophy is a book we’re very happy to keep at our bedside for late-night reflection and indeed inspirational ‘food for thought.’” –Andrew Dornenburg and Karen Page, authors of Becoming a Chef Insightful and zesty, this engaging volume encourages readers to sample essays that appeal to their philosophical tastes. Organized thematically like an à la carte menu, the book opens with “Food in Culture & Society,” a glimpse at the inherently social and cultural aspects of food, whetting the appetite for what is to follow, including topics such as: Who decides just what constitutes quality cuisine or foul fare? Is food aesthetically important? How are food and sensuality related? Do we have an ethical responsibility to eat organic, free-range, vegetarian, or locally grown foods? In addition to contributions by philosophers, the book also includes a rare collection of essays by culinary professionals and food critics who infuse their passion for food with philosophical flavorings. Another installment in the “ Epicurean Trilogy ” (together with Wine & Philosophy and Beer & Philosophy ), Food & Philosophy serves up a healthy helping of timely food-oriented thinking. Insightful and zesty, this engaging volume encourages readers to sample essays that appeal to their philosophical tastes. Organized thematically like an à la carte menu, the book opens with “Food in Culture & Society,” a glimpse at the inherently social and cultural aspects of food, whetting the appetite for what is to follow, including topics such as: Who decides just what constitutes quality cuisine or foul fare? Is food aesthetically important? How are food and sensuality related? Do we have an ethical responsibility to eat organic, free-range, vegetarian, or locally grown foods? In addition to contributions by philosophers, the book also includes a rare collection of essays by culinary professionals and food critics who infuse their passion for food with philosophical flavorings. Another installment in the “ Epicurean Trilogy ” (together with Wine & Philosophy and Beer & Philosophy ), Food & Philosophy serves up a healthy helping of timely food-oriented thinking. Fritz Allhoff , PhD, is an assistant professor of philosophy at Western Michigan University. His research areas are in ethical theory, applied ethics, and philosophy of biology/science. He is the editor of Wine & Philosophy (Blackwell 2007). Dave Monroe was an accomplished chef, restaurant consultant, and caterer prior to pursuing academic philosophy. He is an adjunct instructor at the Applied Ethics Institute of St. Petersburg College. Used Book in Good Condition