In Mary Roach's "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers," the author explores the controversial topic of cannibalism, specifically focusing on the consumption of human flesh for nutritional purposes. Roach mentions a conversation with Stanley Garn, who highlights that livestock like cows provide a more efficient source of nourishment. This raises interesting questions about societal norms and practices related to cannibalism, particularly when it comes to the consumption of one's own dead, as opposed to those captured as enemies.

Roach expresses curiosity about the pragmatic aspects of cannibalism, such as the notion of eating the flesh of the deceased simply because it is available and could provide a temporary alternative to traditional foods like taro root. This reflects a broader inquiry into human behavior, cultural practices, and the moral implications surrounding the use of human remains, inviting readers to reconsider the boundaries of dietary customs in different contexts.