In analyzing this week\u2019s materials what stands out the most for me is the concept and practice of reductionist science in nutritionism. While I recognize in myself a belief and\/or trust in science and it’s processes, I am concerned about the limited nature of reductionist science, or the breaking down into components a whole system whose purpose is not completely understood, such as in the case of living and social systems. In researching my own global health concerns and interests I normalize a \u2018holistic\u2019 approach and subscribe to the medical \u201cfirst, do no harm\u201d Hippocratic Oath and an environmental \u201cPrecautionary Principle\u201d.<\/p>\n
While systems science can\u2019t help but be an evolutionary process, by turning living organisms into commodities, be that food resources or labor, we seem to have lost a level of connection with the planet, life\u2019s processes, one another, and our individual health. \u00a0There are vast amounts of culture and knowledge ultimately being replaced by what some would identify as a cultural hegemony of incomplete science and the forceful adoption of capitalistic ideology. I am left with many questions surrounding journalism and the position of science in an economical framework, especially with regard to the interconnectedness of the worlds food system, the prevailing economic system, bodily systems, and our planet.<\/p>\n
As a depiction of journalism, scientific evolution, and systems science I would like to offer some \u201cfood for thought\u201d, a video in which a well respected endocrinology specialist explains in simple terms why high fructose corn syrup is not the same as sugar as food manufacturers would have us believe.<\/p>\n