Food and Philosophy Reading

The Philosopher in the Kitchen (1825), Aphorism ix.

“The discovery of a new dish does more for the happiness of mankind than the discovery of a star”. 

From my perspective, this aphorism reiterates the argument that society focuses way too much on food. There is a common saying, “Eat to live don’t live to eat”. This however, has become a difficult standard to live by when the average consumer is constantly bombarded by advertisements, social media posts, commercials, and television shows that revolve around eating. Marketing for major food brands has increased overwhelmingly in the last decades. One can hardly make it to the next intersection without seeing a Starbucks, McDonalds, Burger King, Chipotle, Red Robin, or Panera on every street corner. Professional athletes are also seen consistently promoting drinks and fast food chains on television and social medias, causing an even greater emphasis to be on put on food. Baking contests and reality cooking shows such as Cake Boss, Hell’s Kitchen, and Master Chef, have also manifested among the years, drawing in huge audiences from across the world. The constant advertising and marketing that surrounds the food industry has in turn created a society that lives to eat. The American culture is one that likes to live in abundance. This is seen in numerous aspects, such as; the growing rates of obesity we have across the country, to the number of choices we have for restaurant, and even the oversized portions we consume. Americans love to eat and no longer see food as a mere source of fuel for the body, but rather a prime source for happiness and contentment.  This ties in closely with the notion of love and family being tied into food. As we saw through numerous films in class, food is used as a gateway. Food is often a symbolism for love and affection. It is used to tie people together spiritually as seen through communion, Easter Dinners, Christmas Dinners, and even Thanksgiving. Food is much more than a source of feeling the body but a medium for bringing people together to express thankfulness and even faithfulness. 

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