Rachel Laudan

Rachel Laudan, a historian of science and author of "Cuisine and Empire," dives into the rich intersection of food and world history. She emphasizes how cuisine shapes culture, politics, and identity, from Hawaii's diverse culinary landscape to the impact of colonialism on food practices. The podcast explores the potato's fascinating journey to culinary prominence and critiques the rise of fast food as a democratizing force. Laudan advocates for giving greater respect to 'middling cuisine,' highlighting its role in global culinary evolution.