Area chair
Shala Mills
What we choose to eat, when we eat it, with whom we eat it, and how we eat it is influenced by technology, economics, politics, fashion, tradition, religion, and other aspects of culture. Food not only answers our most basic physical needs, but also is central to social ritual and the construction of culture, playing a vital symbolic role in forming societies. And of course, what is food without drink? This area also discusses beverage culture, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. What we eat and how we prepare our meals and beverages helps define our culture as much as it is inspires the culture we share.