'Fast Food Nation' Creates Controversy

During the night of October 17 the Claire and Josef Meier Hall was busting at the seems. The crowd squirmed in their seats while waiting for Eric Schlosser's controversial presentation to start. Each listener bringing different reasons for attending. Would the audience rise out of their seats and walk away, or would they listen and agree to a change of lifestyle?

On behalf of the Madeline A. Young Distinguished Speaker Series, Black Hills State University presented  award-winning author Eric Schlosser. In his presentation, Schlosser discussed his book "Fast Food Nation" and the effects fast food has on America's health, economy, and agriculture.

Schlosser brought forth the many different dangers and risks fast food has on it's consumers. He goes on to explain that genetically altered animals and crops have no report  how it will effect future health and environment. According to Schlosser,  "The food system is the bedrock of all societies. Our country has had a transformation in our diets without us even knowing it." He explained that the food companies want the consumers to remain ignorant about what goes on behind the closed doors.

Schlosser also went on to explain that local cattle ranches and crop farms like ones right here in South Dakota are becoming few and far between. He defended his observations by explaining that huge corporations are buying out small business owners leaving them unemployed.

"Growing up on a farm or ranch, he really hit home during the presentation" explains South Dakota local, Susie Pratt. "The farm/ranch my parents own and operate has been in the family for nearly 80 years and they have seen their share of hard times because of the big farmers that Schlosser was referring to."

The  controversial presentation brought about many different opinions with questioning lasting close to an hour long. "I listened to the speech and enjoyed the level of research he had obviously done, especially his level of knowledge about the South Dakota economy, and our way of life. Having spent seven hours driving around the state, and I assume reading some material, his ability to speak on the issues that affect the population of South Dakota was impressive." said Andrew Randazzo, defended Schlosser presentation. "However, the content of his speech will not affect my life in any way."

However, many people were left satisfied by the presentation and thanked Mr. Schlosser with applause, for sharing his extensive research.