Tom Standage's An Edible History of Humanity has been praised for its engaging and well-researched exploration of the role food has played in shaping human civilization. Reviewers commend its readability and insightful historical connections. However, some critics feel it occasionally oversimplifies complex issues. Overall, it’s valued as an informative and thought-provoking read.

Readers who relish fusions of history and culinary arts will savor Tom Standage's An Edible History of Humanity. Comparable to works like Michael Pollan's Omnivore's Dilemma and Jared Diamond's Guns, Germs, and Steel, it caters to those intrigued by the profound impact of food on civilization.

In An Edible History of Humanity, Tom Standage explores the profound impact of agriculture on human life, from the origins of farming to modern times. He examines the coevolution of humans and plants, the rise of complex social structures, the role of food in global trade and warfare, and recent agricultural advancements. Standage argues that farming led to social hierarchies and environmental challenges rather than improving human life overall. The book addresses themes of power, innovation, and the interconnectedness of food and society, illustrating how agriculture shaped history and contemporary culture.

Tom Standage

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Study Guide

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Overview

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An Edible History of Humanity Summary and Study Guide

Background

An Edible History of Humanity Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Edible Foundations of Civilization”

Introduction-Part 1

An Edible History of Humanity Introduction-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Food and Social Structure”

Part 2 An Edible History of Humanity Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Global Highways of Food”

Part 3 An Edible History of Humanity Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Food, Energy, and Industrialization”

Part 4 An Edible History of Humanity Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Food as a Weapon”

Part 5 An Edible History of Humanity Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “Food, Population, and Development”

Part 6-Epilogue

An Edible History of Humanity Part 6-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

An Edible History of Humanity Key Figures

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Themes

An Edible History of Humanity Themes

Index of Terms

An Edible History of Humanity Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

An Edible History of Humanity Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

An Edible History of Humanity Essay Topics

An Edible History of Humanity

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read An Edible History of Humanity?

Reading Age

Book Details