ABSTRACT
In recent years, the so-called prosperity without growth has been proposed, stressing the potential social, environmental, and psychological benefits of community involvement (Jackson, 2016). Drawing on this, the main purpose of this book is to theorise and showcase communal food and dining practices which challenge the less sustainable and often hasty lifestyles encouraged by a social system based on unlimited growth (ibid.). Although the practices under scrutiny are community-based, a special focus is given to the individual partaker and their relation to these communities; for example, their well-being and sense of belongingness.
The cases presented are weighed in the balance of environmental impact, social inclusion, happiness, health, and well-being, to name a few of the areas where the importance of eating together is stressed across disciplines. The presentation of theory and findings is made by highlighting (1) the lived experience of diners, (2) the contexts in which commensality takes place, and (3) what and how people eat together. The purpose is to bridge the gap between science, governance, professional practice, and everyday dieters to provide hands-on benefits and insights to all stakeholders.
