Happiness and Food

I heard part of a radio broadcast this week that made me think about how important food is to our well-being. Well, duh, obviously we all have to eat – but most of us could eat better. A LOT better! And, surprise surprise, government policies don’t necessarily support eating well.

The radio program was On Point, and host Tom Ashbrook was interviewing Michael Pollan about his new book, Food Rules. (Learn more at http://www.onpointradio.org/2010/01/michael-pollans-food-rules.)

Well into the program, a caller raised the issue of agriculture policy, and what impact the federal government has on our ability to eat what’s best for our health – and, indeed, the health of the planet. Pollan said that farmers in the Midwest who currently get subsidies to grow corn and soy would actually have to pay a fine if they wanted to grow some tomatoes, or broccoli, or other healthy plant.

Many of you reading this blog probably know a lot more about what’s wrong with our current agricultural policy. But putting the question through the prism of GNH sure clarifies the issue for me.

Thinking about agricultural policy also clarifies how far we have to go to get policymakers to use a GNH filter – so there’s no time to waste. Please, spread the word. Climb on board. Let’s get going!

Ginny Sassaman