New Book - A Taste for Civilization by Janet Flammang

"This book explores the idea that table activities - the mealtime rituals of food preparation, serving, and dining - lay the foundation for a proper education on the value of civility, the importance of the common good, and what it means to be a good citizen. The arts of conversation and diplomatic speech are learned and practiced at tables, and a political history of food practices recasts thoughtfulness and generosity as virtues that enhance civil society and democracy. In our industrialized and profit-centered culture, however, foodwork is devalued and civility is eroding." (Amazon.com)

Check out this Civil Eats review of the book by Sara Franklin (an independent food systems consultant and freelance writer focusing on community development and health, rural-urban links, social justice and urban agriculture). Despite being somewhat critical of the author's efforts, Franklin's review, along with the book's subtitle, definitely make me inclined to read this book.