In "The Sex Lives of Cannibals: Adrift in the Equatorial Pacific," J. Maarten Troost reflects on the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, challenging the notion that the world is small. He highlights the significant distances involved, particularly when traveling across these expansive waters, which can lead to a greater appreciation of geographic and cultural diversity.

The author’s perspective emphasizes that perceptions of the world being compact often ignore the realities of travel and the unique experiences that come with it. By citing his observations, Troost invites readers to recognize the richness of far-off places, contrasting them with the limited view of connectivity often fostered in modern society.