Food Inc. - pgs. 183-218

It seems that when reading Food Inc. that we as readers are given the same information presented in different ways. Sure there is some variation of what information is presented, but for the largest part the information is the same. By addressing how the information is presented differently, we can learn how arguments are convincing, or are not convincing.

In the chapter titled, "Declare Your Independence", by Joel Salatin, the information was presented in such a way that I felt as if I had read this section before. This is not to say that the essay was not effective. I was particularly interested in the part where Salatin made comments about how scientists are trying to locate pig's stress gene so that they can remove it. This way the pigs can be abused and not be stressed out. How nice of the scientists! No, it is rather disturbing that instead of doing what I believe would be easier, changing their practice, they are dedicated to using science. Although I believe that locating the stress gene in pigs might have some sort of positive effects in the long run. That is, perhaps it could help scientists understand the nature of stress and how to handle it in all sorts of animals, say humans. But the motivation for this kind of scientific exploration in bizarre and cruel.

In the chapter titled, "Eating Made Simple", by Marion Nestle, the approach is much different. I particularly liked this section. There is something very creditable about the author. The author being a doctor is probably what is most swaying. I learned in this section that dairy products are not essential to our nutrition. I have long known that we, as humans, are basically the only animals that continue to consume dairy after infancy. But I thought there was reason for this, I did not know that we are able to consume all the nutrients necessary from vegetables and fruits to support our bone and calcium health. I was also surprised to read that some cultures who do not consume dairy are actually shown to have stronger bones than cultures that consume dairy. Overall this section was very useful to me because it appears to tell the truth. The author makes claims and is then able to back up those claim with medical/scientific research. This makes the author creditable.