Consider the Lobster

Definition

'Consider the Lobster' is an essay by David Foster Wallace that delves into the ethical implications of boiling lobsters alive for culinary purposes. This work showcases Wallace's ability to present unique angles on seemingly mundane topics, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable truths about animal suffering, consumerism, and the nature of ethical choices in everyday life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wallace employs a conversational style and vivid descriptions to engage readers while presenting complex ethical questions about food consumption.
2. The essay raises significant concerns about the treatment of lobsters, leading readers to question their own beliefs regarding animal suffering and dietary choices.
3. Wallace contrasts the luxurious perception of lobster as a gourmet dish with the grim reality of its preparation, highlighting cognitive dissonance in consumer culture.
4. The piece encourages readers to consider their own role in perpetuating suffering through everyday choices, making it a powerful reflection on personal responsibility.
5. Through humor and irony, Wallace effectively critiques modern consumerism while challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about their lifestyle choices.

Review Questions

• How does Wallace's writing style contribute to the effectiveness of his argument in 'Consider the Lobster'?
  • Wallace's writing style is conversational and richly descriptive, making complex ethical dilemmas more relatable and engaging for readers. By using humor and irony, he draws readers in while simultaneously prompting them to reflect deeply on the ethical implications of cooking lobsters. This approach helps create a sense of discomfort, encouraging introspection about personal beliefs regarding animal rights and culinary practices.
• In what ways does 'Consider the Lobster' challenge conventional views on culinary practices and consumerism?
  • 'Consider the Lobster' challenges conventional views by juxtaposing the perception of lobster as a luxury food item against the ethical concerns surrounding its preparation. Wallace encourages readers to rethink their assumptions about food choices and highlights how societal norms often overlook the suffering involved in these culinary practices. By doing so, he prompts a critical examination of our complicity in consumer culture and the moral ramifications of our dietary decisions.
• Evaluate how David Foster Wallace's 'Consider the Lobster' serves as a commentary on broader societal issues related to ethics and individual responsibility.
  • 'Consider the Lobster' functions as a commentary on broader societal issues by examining the disconnect between consumer habits and ethical considerations regarding animal welfare. Wallace illustrates how society often prioritizes convenience and indulgence over compassion and mindfulness, urging readers to take responsibility for their choices. This reflection on individual ethics ties into larger conversations about sustainability, moral accountability, and how we engage with the world around us.

Related terms

Ethics: A branch of philosophy dealing with what is morally right and wrong, which is central to Wallace's arguments about animal rights and humane treatment.

Sensory Experience: The way individuals perceive and interpret sensory information; in the essay, Wallace describes the sensory details of cooking lobsters to highlight their plight.

Culinary Culture: The practices, traditions, and beliefs surrounding food preparation and consumption, which Wallace critiques in relation to societal norms around eating lobster.