Michael Pollan
An American author and journalist known for his insightful explorations of the relationship between humans and the natural world, particularly concerning food and agriculture. His influential books, such as The Omnivore's Dilemma and In Defense of Food, examine the complexities of the modern food system and advocate for more mindful and sustainable eating habits. Pollan's engaging writing and thorough research have made him a prominent voice in discussions about food and the environment.
In this thought-provoking exploration, Michael Pollan investigates three psychoactive plants—opium, caffeine, and mescaline—and their impact on human consciousness and culture. Combining science, history, memoir, and journalism, Pollan examines how these substances have shaped societies, laws, and lives. He dives into our complex relationships with drugs: how we define them, why we fear or embrace them, and what they reveal about our minds. With curiosity and clarity, This Is Your Mind on Plants challenges our assumptions about legality, morality, and perception, offering a nuanced look at how plants have influenced the human experience.
What shall we have for dinner? Such a simple question has grown to have a very complicated answer. We can eat almost anything nature has to offer, but deciding what we should eat stirs anxiety. Should we choose the organic apple or the conventional? If organic, local or imported? Wild fish or farmed? Low-carb or low-cal? As the American culture of fast food and unlimited choice invades the world, Pollan follows his next meal from land to table, tracing the origin of everything consumed and the implications for ourselves and our planet. His astonishing findings will shock all who care about what they put on their plate.