Mad Cows and Cannibals guides the reader through the complex world of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) - bizarre, degenerative brain diseases that afflict both animals and humans.The journey leads us from ritualistic cannibalism in the highlands of New Guinea. throuch the modern agricultural feeding practices that triggered the Mad Cow Disease epidemic in Great Britain, to the recent outbreak of chronic wasting disease in North America. In clear and accessible language, Mad Cows and Cannibals explains the biology of TSEs and explores how political and social actions can contribute to their spread. It also answers questions about how TSEs affect the safety of our food supply, blood supply, and medical procedures. A comprehensive list of web and print resources points the way for continued exploration of this important and controversial topic.