AMES, Iowa --Will Tuttle, a Zen Buddhist monk and author of the book, "World Peace Diet," will speak and lead panel discussions at Iowa State University's Sustainable Food Conference Oct. 27 - 28. Both sessions of "A New Paradigm for a Peaceful Planet" are at 6:30 p.m. in the Memorial Union. They are free and open to the public.
In his book, Tuttle presents a view of the world based on understanding the far-reaching implications of food choices. Tuttle, who holds a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, has taught more than 20 college courses in mythology, philosophy, comparative religion and human sciences. A Dharma Master in the Zen tradition, he has studied a variety of non-Western spiritual traditions. Tuttle cofounded Karuna Music and Art, and the Prayer Circle for Animals.
The panel topic for the session on Monday, Oct. 27, in the Pioneer Room is "The Effects of Animal Agriculture on World Hunger and the Environment." Tuttle will speak on "The Social, Physiological and Spiritual Consequences of Animal Agriculture." Other panelists are Harold Brown, whose story of transformation from animal farmer to vegan advocate is featured in the documentary, "Peaceable Kingdom, the Journey Home"; and Clark Ford, ISU professor of food science and human nutrition, who researches quality protein maize to enhance human nutrition in the developing world.
On Tuesday, Oct. 28, in the Oak Room, the topic will be "The Cultural and Health Benefits of a Vegan Diet." Tuttle will speak on "Theological Perspectives: Spiritual, Cultural and Health Benefits of Liberating Animals." Joining him will be Brown, and Erica Fuchs, founder and director of the Iowa nonprofit, Center for Plant-Based Diet Development. Brown will discuss the journey from animal- to plant-based agriculture. Fuchs will address the benefits and barriers to vegan nutrition.
The conference is cosponsored by ISU Vegetarians/Vegans and the Committee on Lectures, which is funded by the Government of the Student Body.