Consuming Passions: The Anthropology of Eating

Abstract

The relationship of eating behavior to culture and society is explored from an anthropologic perspective. Anthropologists suggest that to discover where, when, what, how and with whom food is eaten is to learn how a society functions. Food habits, customs, beliefs, and attitudes throughout the world are examined. The biological and evolutionary aspects of eating are described. Eating practices are discussed in relation to the life cycle; the association of eating with symbols, status, gift-giving, feasting, social and kinship relations, and ritual is analyzed. Food preferences and avoidances which may characterize an entire culture are considered. Contemporary issues in diet and eating (hunger, obesity, fast foods, food additives, nutrient excesses, food processing, and food safety) are discussed from the anthropologist's viewpoint in an epilogue. (nm)

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