Final answer:
Michael Pollan responds to the conflicting viewpoint that corn is cheap by addressing government subsidies and the role of corn in different industries.
Step-by-step explanation:
Michael Pollan responds to the conflicting viewpoint that corn is cheap by highlighting the influence of government policies and subsidies on corn prices. He explains that government subsidies make corn-based products cheaper than fruits and vegetables, which are relatively more expensive. Pollan also emphasizes the role of corn in various industries, such as biofuels and livestock feed, which contributes to its abundance and lower cost. Additionally, he mentions how the government manipulates food definitions to favor agribusiness interests.