Beer and Society: How We Make Beer and Beer Makes Us

Beer and Society: How We Make Beer and Beer Makes Us explores the social, cultural, and economic dimensions of the modern beer world, arguing that our relationship with beer reflects the roots of our society and serves as a site of growing struggles for social change.

Format: Hardback
Length: 210 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

Beer, a timeless beverage that has transcended borders and cultures for centuries, holds a profound significance in our lives. Beyond its refreshing taste, beer encompasses a rich tapestry of social, cultural, and economic dimensions that shape our world. In their captivating book, Beer and Society: How We Make Beer and Beer Makes Us, authors David Edwards and Andrew Willis take readers on an exhilarating journey through the multifaceted realm of modern beer. They vividly illustrate that beer is not merely a drink; it serves as a powerful symbol of identity, a source of immense pleasure, an object of connoisseurship, and a livelihood for countless individuals involved in its production and distribution.

Drawing upon cutting-edge sociological and psychological insights, the authors argue that our enduring relationship with beer and its diverse range of flavors reflects the very essence of our society. They explore how our collective values, norms, power structures, and disparities in race, gender, sexuality, and social class intertwine to shape our interactions with this beloved beverage. Beer and Society serves as a thought-provoking lens through which we can examine these aspects of beer as sites of ongoing struggles for social change.

In the first chapter, the authors delve into the historical and cultural origins of beer, tracing its evolution from ancient civilizations to the modern beer industry. They explore how beer has been intertwined with human societies, serving as a source of sustenance, a tool for social bonding, and a vehicle for artistic expression. The chapter highlights the role of beer in shaping cultural identities, from the Bavarian beer festivals to the craft beer revolution in the United States.

The second chapter delves into the social and cultural significance of beer. The authors argue that beer has become a central component of our social interactions, serving as a unifying force that brings people together. They explore how beer festivals, pub crawls, and beer-related events have become popular forms of entertainment and community building. The chapter also examines the role of beer in promoting social equality, as it has historically been associated with marginalized communities and has played a role in challenging dominant power structures.

The third chapter explores the economic dimensions of beer. The authors argue that the beer industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with the rise of craft beer and the globalization of the beer market. They discuss the impact of beer on local economies, from the creation of jobs and the stimulation of tourism to the contribution to local businesses. The chapter also explores the challenges faced by small-scale breweries and the impact of corporate consolidation on the beer industry.

In the fourth chapter, the authors examine the psychological and physiological effects of beer consumption. They explore how beer can affect our mood, cognitive function, and physical well-being. The chapter also discusses the role of beer in promoting socialization and relaxation, as well as its potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and improving cognitive function.

The fifth chapter delves into the environmental impact of beer production and consumption. The authors argue that the beer industry has a significant ecological footprint, from the use of water and energy to the disposal of waste. They discuss the efforts of breweries and beer consumers to reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable practices. The chapter also highlights the role of beer in promoting biodiversity and preserving natural resources.

In the final chapter, the authors reflect on the future of beer and its potential for social change. They argue that beer has the power to bring people together, promote social equality, and challenge dominant power structures. They discuss the role of breweries and beer consumers in shaping the future of the beer industry and promoting a more inclusive and sustainable beer culture.

Beer and Society: How We Make Beer and Beer Makes Us is a captivating and thought-provoking book that offers a comprehensive exploration of the social, cultural, and economic dimensions of modern beer. Through its engaging narrative and insightful analysis, the book demonstrates that beer is not just a beverage; it is a powerful symbol of our society, reflecting our collective values, norms, and struggles. By examining the many facets of beer, the authors invite readers to consider the role of beer in shaping our world and the potential for social change that lies within this beloved beverage.

Weight: 445g
Dimension: 237 x 163 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666904338