Cornucopia explores the health and economic implications of U.S. farm policy. Using a corn farm in rural South Dakota as his starting point, Johnson reviews the history of agricultural policies in America to understand how large-scale, industrial agriculture came to play such a large role in U.S. and world food production. He also discusses the role of agricultural policies in the on-going "food for fuel" debate, as well as the linkages between agricultural outputs and health outcomes. As the U.S. battles with a burgeoning epidemic of dietary disease - including some of the highest rates of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension in the developed world - it is especially important to understand where our food comes from and its relation to health, nutrition, and economic mobility. Ensuring America's health and well-being requires us to first return to the farm.

D. Patrick Johnson grew up in the Great Plains of South Dakota surrounded by corn fields. He currently works in Washington, D.C. as an associate with Booz Allen Hamilton's Diplomacy and International Development practice. Johnson's professional focus in the agricultural sector includes program strategy, design, and management. He remains involved with advocacy and educational work to connect agricultural policy with health and nutrition. Johnson is a regularly featured speaker at universities, think tanks, government forums, and international conferences. His work has taken him to over 35 countries across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.