F. Bailey Norwood

Jayson L. Lusk

This highly readable book is aimed at anyone with an interest in the food they eat. In conversational tone, and avoiding academic jargon, it provides an honest and objective account of the consequences of food consumption choices and policies, through the lens of economics.

The Economics of Farm Animal Welfare

Compassion, by the Pound

Pascal A. Oltenacu

Michelle S. Calvo-Lorenzo

Sarah Lancaster

The public is more interested in agricultural and food issues than ever before, as is evident in the many agricultural controversies debated in the media. Why is it that some people embrace new agricultural technologies while others steadfastly defend traditional farming methods? Why do some prefer to buy food grown around the world while others patronize small, local farmers? In the debates about organic food, genetically modified organisms, and farm animal welfare, it is not always clear what the scientific literature actually says. To understand these controversies, the authors encourage readers to develop first an appreciation for why two equally intelligent and well-intentioned people can form radically different notions about food. Sometimes the disputes are scientific in nature, and sometimes they arise from conflicting ethical views. This book confronts the most controversial issues in agriculture by first explaining the principles of both sides of the debate, and then guiding readers through the scientific literature so that they may form their own educated opinions. Is food safe if the farm used pesticides, or are organic foods truly better for your health? Are chemical fertilizers sustainable, or are we producing cheap food today at the expense of future generations? What foods should we eat to have a smaller carbon footprint? Is genetically-modified food the key to global food security, and does it give corporations too much market power? Is the prevalence of corn throughout the food system the result of farm subsidies? Does buying local food stimulate the local economy? Why are so many farm animals raised indoors, and should antibiotics be given to livestock? These are the issues addressed in Agricultural and Food Controversies: What Everyone Needs to Know. While it doesn't claim to have all the answers, it provides a synthesis of research and popular opinions on both sides of these important issues, allowing readers to decide what they value and believe for themselves.

What Everyone Needs to Know

Agricultural and Food Controversies

Norwood and Lusk provide a fresh approach to marketing and price analysis that speaks to undergraduate students. In addition to providing thorough coverage of core topics, they address exciting developments and emerging areas of research in the field. Friendly and engaging, Agricultural Marketing and Price Analysis presents a comprehensive approach to agricultural price analysis, agricultural market structures, and agricultural marketing strategies. Unique to this book is the inclusion of the equilibrium displacement model and a chapter on consumer behavior and research. The Meet the Professional feature illustrates how the economic principles covered fit into the careers students will soon enter. End-of-chapter crossword puzzles and study questions assist in learning terminology and test preparation. Succinct and approachable, this text sets the stage for an enjoyable and effective learning experience.

F. Bailey Norwood

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