TOW #4 - Fast Food Nation

            For my IRB, I read Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser. This book is about the developments of the fast food industry in America, and how it has affected the average citizen. Schlosser used statistics to show things such as how many gallons of soft drink per year the average American consumes. Eric Schlosser wrote that he spent two years doing research for his book. He also coproduced the documentary Food, Inc.

            The audience for this text is the average American. Eric Schlosser wanted to inform readers about how the fast food industry has affected America. This book asks readers to take a closer look at our food system. While fast food is not exclusive to America, Schlosser wrote this book because he believed that the problem that is fast food was getting out of hand.

            This book is an extended didactic. Schlosser aimed to teach readers through the use of statistics and stories. In my opinion, he used so many statistics and facts that the book got boring. One fact that Schlosser used to inform readers on the expansion of McDonald’s was, “McDonald’s spends more money on advertising and marketing than any other brand. As a result it has replaced Coca-Cola as the world’s most famous brand. McDonald’s operates more playgrounds than any other private entity in the United States.” (Schlosser 4). This quote shows how McDonald’s works to appeal to younger audiences and pull in more funds.

            The author’s purpose is to inspire readers to both understand the industry and choose to eat healthier foods when possible. Who wants to hear that the average American eats over 39 pounds of frozen French fries per year? I know that statistic will inspire me to eat less fries.

            I think that Schlosser does not achieve his purpose, as his book almost put me to sleep, and I kept thinking that I am below this average American. I think people would not want to hear just how unhealthy they can be, and would not be scared into changing their habits.