Appetite Quote by Michael Pollan
““[..] the very open-endedness of human appetite is responsible for both our savagery and civility, since the creature that conceive of eating anything (including, notably, other humans) stands in particular need of ethical rules, manners, and rituals. we are not only what we eat, but how we eat, too.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan, 2006
Human desire for limitless consumption drives both destructive and civil behavior, requiring ethical frameworks, manners, and rituals to guide how we obtain and consume food.
In simple terms: Unlimited appetite creates both cruelty and culture, needing rules for eating.
Cultivate mindful eating habits.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- dinner parties
- grocery shopping
- policy making
- environmental activism
- personal diet planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance pleasure and responsibility in food choices?
- What rituals help you eat more ethically?
Overemphasis on rules can stifle spontaneity and cultural diversity.