Reflection 01: Table for One—On Eating Alone

The Buddha is said to have proclaimed: “There is no joy in eating alone.” Today, that seems to be a sentiment shared by many Americans. Though attitudes (and situations) may be changing, Americans generally disdain solo dining. But why? Why does eating alone inspire so much dread in people? For this reflection you must have one meal in public, alone. As you do so, consider: Are you enjoying it? Are you uncomfortable? What, if anything, do you do in addition to eating? Finally, why are Americans are so averse to eating by themselves—and what makes eating alone okay in most people's eyes?

Note: The meal you have alone needn't be anything extravagant. The point is simply to eat by yourself, be it in a cafe, food court, restaurant, or cafeteria. Also, remember that dinner is often thought by Americans be the most challenging meal to have alone.

Include at least two of the following in your discussion:

• "Hate Dining Solo? Site Offers a Solution" (CNN)
• "Table For One, Please. A Solo Thanksgiving" (NPR)
• "What is it Like to Eat Alone at a Fancy Restaurant?" (Slate)
• "Americans Need to Stop Multitasking While Eating Alone, Argues French Sociologist Claude Fischler" (Grist)
• "Table for One: The Singular Joy of Dining Alone" (O, The Oprah Magazine)
• "Dartmouth Social Cups Try to Cure the Dread of Eating Alone" (Huffington Post)

Required:

• MLA Style
• Works cited 
• Two full pages in length

Due: We 02.05