Using MLA format, analyze the culture(s) and values represented in the assigned supplemental text and comment on any parallels with Hirschberg text readings.

The assigned reading details who food and culture are heavily related to one another and often reflect the prevailing values of the civilization. The reading provides the example of Thailand and how their collectivistic culture is embodied in the manner in which they create their food. Here, the people of Thailand share plates with each other which represents the emphasis placed on community and family. American culture however is much more focused on the individual and those people often serve themselves on a single plate. Both examples represent the values placed on society and how they are interwoven within the overall civilization. America values individualism which is reflected in its capitalistic nature. Society is predicates on individuals pursuing their own self-interests and using those interests...

Meanwhile many Asian countries are much more communal in their civilizations. Many often shun individual accomplishment especially if it is to the detriment of society overall. As a result, they emphasize shared sacrifice and community relationships.

The reading also reflects how these cultural values can have implications for other countries around the world. Due to globalization, many nations are now much more interconnected as it relates to their economic activities. This has allowed many developing nations to flourish. These nations have been able to grow and foster their middle class, improve household income, and allow consumers excess to a variety of goods and service. Unfortunately, these benefits are not without their subsequent costs. The reading uses the example of Brazil and how the fast-food industry is contributing to massive deforestation. In this example, the American values of convenience and seamless service have created a mass influx of fast-food operations. These operations have spread international due to…