Depolarizing Food and Agriculture

<p>Many issues in food and agriculture are portrayed as increasingly polarized. These include industrial vs. sustainable agriculture conventional vs. organic production methods and global vs. local food sourcing to name only three. This book addresses the origins validity consequences and potential resolution of these and other divergences. </p><p>Political and legal actions have resulted in significant monetary and psycho-social costs for groups on both sides of these divides. Rhetoric on many issues has caused misinformation and confusion among consumers who are unsure about the impact of their food choices on nutrition health the environment animal welfare and hunger. In some cases distrust has intensified to embitterment on both sides of many issues and even to violence. The book uses economic principles to help readers better understand the divisiveness that prevails in the agricultural production food processing and food retailing industries. </p><p>The authors propose solutions to promote resolution and depolarization between advocates with seemingly irreconcilable differences. A multifaceted diverse but targeted approach to food production and consumption is suggested to promote social well-being and reduce or eliminate misinformation anxiety transaction costs and hunger.</p>