Published date: August 24, 2021
The pamphlet "Ethics of Eating. Food and Relationship" by Adriano Fabris explores the act of eating as an ethical and relational gesture. Fabris argues that eating is a specific and problematic way of relating to other living beings and to the world, and as such it can be done well or badly.
Starting from this assumption, the author analyzes key concepts of food ethics, such as the distinction between nourishment and nutrition, the latter understood as a cultural act that implies transformation through cooking. Furthermore, he examines the sacred and profane dimension of food, highlighting how modern consumerism transforms food from a resource to a commodity, with negative consequences for small producers and the environment.
Fabris introduces the concept of "food citizenship", reflecting on the right of every individual to safe food and the need to ensure the safety of the food chain. The author recognizes that the act of eating inevitably involves a form of violence, since it involves the killing of other living beings. However, he proposes to transform this awareness into responsibility, adopting the "principle of relationship" to guide food choices.
In conclusion, Fabris states that food is a symbol of all the relationships that involve us: with ourselves, with others and with the environment. Eating ethically means creating a balanced and responsible relationship with this nucleus of relationships that is our daily food.
