"Think Globally, Eat Locally"

   I have chosen to do my rhetorical analysis on article 5-B in the Perspectives on Globalization book. The article is titled "Think Globally, Eat Locally" and was written by Jennifer Wilkins and Anna Lappe. I believe that they chose a very fitting and eye catching title. It sure was what caught my attention.
   In this article the authors present many different ways on how to change eating habits and become healthier and environmental-friendly consumers. They address many different issues and give solutions to each one. By acknowledging so many different problems they widen their audience. It is not just those who have local farmers markets available, or those who buy from a supermarket. By making so many points Wilkins and Lappe increase the chance of having one point that every American can relate to. However, Wilkins and Lappe do generalize their audience by not acknowledging those who have medical issues or special dietary needs.
   When discussing how we can "Quench Thirst With Tap Water" (Wilkins/Lappe 92) they omit the fact that, in some places, tap water may not just be expensive, but perhaps unavailable as well. What about when there is a problem with plumbing? My family recently moved into a new farm house and the first winter we spent there the pipes froze. You could say that our availability to tap water had been frozen in its tracks. While I agree that drinking tap water is much more friendly to the environment, it is not always the most dependable.
   Wilkins and Lappe have a very strong opinion on this topic. Their tone shows that while being professional and well informed, you can still be witty and clever. They are pretty light and casual. Nevertheless, I believe through their use of exaggeration, facts, and solutions they make a very convincing argument on eating locally and changing our dietary course of action.
   The text was written and published in April of 2007 in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. I recall this being a climax for concerns of global warming. This article was written at a good time for it to influence many readers. It suggests easy ways that we can use less plastic and fossil fuels, as well as positive ways to improve not just the Earth's health, but our own health.
   I thoroughly enjoyed how this article was structured and written. I believe for the most part, the rhetorical devices used are beneficial. Wilkins and Lappe explain things that the readers may not understand. This shows they are aware of their audience and are open to gaining more supporters. Through all the facts, witty comments, and structural writing, this article is a convincing and enjoyable read.