Write a 300 word or so essay that examines one of the questions listed below. (
Here are the topics. Pick one to answer:
1. Why is it, according to Pollan, that “every new step in the direction of simplification…leads to unimagined new complexities” (185)? Look at this as a general principle as it relates to agriculture.
2. Pollan breaks down modern agricultural into two opposing “paradigms,” the monocultural paradigm and the biodiversity/organic paradigm.[1] What characterizes each group, as Pollan sees it? How do culture and cultural values play into the monocultural paradigm? How does economics play into the monocultural paradigm? How does desire play into this? In Pollan’s view, what paradigm does biotechnology support? How does it support it? How do these things look when viewed through the Apollonian and Dionysian dichotomy?
[1] Generally speaking, “paradigm” most often refers to a pattern or model. However, the term paradigm can also refer to a “worldview.” I think both definitions are acceptable, here.
Additional Notes :
You must support your arguments with the material that was assigned and you must cite it accurately.
The use of outside sources in these assignments is prohibited. All of the material you use and cite must come from what was assigned in this module. The whole idea of this class is to simply work with the assigned material, to explore and play with these ideas. I’m not looking for “perfection,” just an honest effort. Do the work and trust yourself. If you use an uncited source and fail to cite it, you will get an “F.” Plagiarism is never acceptable.
Double-spaced is preferred.
This is an article that may be helpful:
https://bigthink.com/personal-growth/what-nietzsche-really-meant-the-apollonian-and-dionysian/
