Thoughtful review of a thought-provoking book

Regular readers know I'm somewhat of the green/healthy/peacable bent (though I draw the line at certain predators—I prefer to do my own predating). You also know I'm an academic sort, what with my predilection for correct grammar, large library, affinity for researching the facts, enjoyment of science in general, and fund of abstruse information. (Did you know yesterday was Hank Thoreau's birthday? And that he invented raisin bread?)

I just finished a book that I must recommend. Although some of what the author offers in the solution department is simplistic (otoh, how much can you fit into a single book. I'm pretty sure there's more content than what's in the book), The main content is not only well presented and persuasive, but it's copiously footnoted and bibliographied—my kind of book.

The book is The Vegetarian Myth, by Lierre Keith, and you ought to read it. (Lierre rhymes with Pierre)

Much of the book aligns with what I already know, and adds details that tie a lot of things together for me. It delves into anthropology, history, chemistry, nutrition, biology--practically every science that deals with the earth and things living on it. The melange is fascinating; I could hardly put it down.

The book's position is that the philosophy of vegetarianism is flawed. Not in goals, but in its tactics. If I may be simplistic: the goal of vegetarianism is to work toward a better earth, and better health. Vegetarianism's tactic is to not eat meat. The book shows in convincing detail that vegetarianism accomplishes neither of these goals.

I don't want to spoil things by telling you too much—I'd rather you give the book a read. For one thing, if I summarize, you won't get the background and supporting information that's in the book, and what I say might not be so convincing. The book is addressed to vegetarians, but the information certainly applies to all of us. For my part, I'm glad that I'm doing so many things right already. The other stuff, I'll have to think about, but I have already changed my eating.