LIBS 116: Fast Food Nation

Course Description

This course explores the role of fast food in our society. Fast food is something we take for granted, yet it has helped shape our culture as well as our economy and is a key symbol of the American lifestyle to the rest of the world. In this course we will examine the history of the fast food industry, the nature of work in the fast food sector, the global reach of corporations like McDonald's and Starbucks, the environmental impact of food production, and the rise of the "slow food" movement. The course will introduce students to perspectives from the social and behavioral sciences including economics, sociology, anthropology, environmental studies, science and technology studies, politics, and history. (F)