Quick take: Cultural Encyclopedia of Vegetarianism, edited by Margaret Puskar-Pasewicz (Greenwood, 2010) provides a global and historical perspective on vegetarianism and its social manifestations. Fascinating, because there have been so many variations based on religion, health, ethics, economics, politics and lifestyle choices.
Some entries include: Punk Rock -- Joey Ramone and Poly Styrene of X-Ray Spex, for instance. Joan Jett is a vegan and Grace Slick is a "relaxed vegan." In another section, a mention of Chrissie Hynde as vegan restaurant owner. Glimpses at Seventh Day Adventism, Jainism, the Shakers, and more than one entry pertaining to Battle Creek, Michigan (Morningstar is owned by Kellogg). Let's not forget an entry on India and one on Frances Moore Lappé, author of Diet for a Small Planet (1971) and other works. A link is provided to the Small Planet Institute: http://www.smallplanet.org/
In sum, Cultural Encyclopedia of Vegetarianism renders an accessible overview of the varieties of vegan and vegetarian experience, religious and secular.
Question du jour: Is there any good reason not to eat organic vegetarian or vegan meals on a regular basis?
Today's Rune: Partnership.
3 comments:
I don't think there's any rational reason not too, and probably plenty of rational reasons to eat more veggie type meals. For me it's probably mostly growing up always having meat with a meal and it just doesn't seem quite a meal without it. I know I'm a bit of a dinosaur, and maybe that's a good thing. I'll be extinct eventually and maybe the food world will be better for it. have you seen Travis Erwin's "lettuce is the devil" blog?
Charles, I understand completely. I love hot dogs, bratwursts, sausage, steaks, meatloaf, hamburgers, chicken, turkey, etc. The amazing thing these days is how some places (like Spiral Diner) can make vegan equivalents taste so damned good with obvious benefits all down the line. This sure makes it easier to add into the mix.
As for dinosaurs, some were and are vegetarians, some carnivores, some omnivores. Same as it ever ever was! Will check Travis' blog -- cheers ~~
Dear Erik France,
Greetings! I enjoyed your recent post about Frances Moore Lappé and vegetarianism. I am writing on behalf of the Small Planet Institute, founded by Frances Moore Lappé and Anna Lappé. Frances is thrilled that you mentioned her work.
Because you engage in many issues that Frances writes about often, including reducing or eliminating meat from your diet and incorporating a vision of living democracy where the people hold the power in the future, would you like be on our e-list to keep up with Frances’ and Anna’s writings and events, as well as receive our e-newsletter? If you haven’t already, check out the Small Planet Institute website at www.smallplanet.org to read more about Frances’ latest work.
All good wishes,
Tess Carenbauer
Small Planet Intern
theresa@smallplanet.org
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