A Hundred Years of Mocking Vegetarians
The article delves into historical mockery of vegetarianism, highlighting Anthony Bourdain's criticism. Despite growing acceptance, a 2015 study shows lingering negative views. The piece traces vegetarianism's long history and evolving perceptions.
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In a journey through The Atlantic's archives, the article explores the historical mockery and stigma surrounding vegetarianism. Anthony Bourdain's disdain for vegetarians is highlighted, reflecting a common sentiment towards those who choose plant-based diets. Despite increasing acceptance and even veneration of vegan and vegetarian diets in modern times, a 2015 study revealed that vegetarians are still viewed negatively by many. The article traces the long history of vegetarianism, dating back to 500 B.C.E., and its presence among various intellectual and reformist movements in the 19th and 20th centuries. The piece also acknowledges The Atlantic's past criticism of vegetarians, reflecting the prevailing attitudes of the time. Over the years, perceptions of vegetarianism have evolved alongside improvements in plant-based cuisine and a better understanding of health and environmental impacts. Despite these advancements, vegetarians continue to face societal resistance and judgment, challenging the norm of meat consumption and the pursuit of pleasure at any cost.
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10 commentsIt's pretty easy to understand that in at least North America our livestock handling practices cause a huge amount of suffering to animals for the enjoyment of people. But most people are able to ignore / justify that with a "well, it's bad but you gotta eat".
When presented with a group of people who make the choice not to eat animals / contribute to that suffering it challenges that justification and makes people very uncomfortable and in some cases angry. The easiest way to resolve this conflict is to mock those people and write them off as some kind of sanctimonious kill joys
Italian and Indian food is where it's at. Is Indian food well known in the US? There's plenty in the UK but most generic "Indian" is mostly Punjabi in particular. It's not hard to find proper vegetarian Indian food if you look, though.
I assume most people who are "offended" by it are harbouring guilt. Usual story.
Personally, I eat meat, but I don't take issue with people who don't, and I'm glad they have more and more options, many of which I enjoy myself. But I'm not a big fan of those substitutes. I'd rather have meat, or a more traditional vegetarian/vegan dish(even something like a black bean burger).
You don't think about the vegetarians around you who keep to themselves and go about their way of life without trying to push it on others, so they're quietly embarrassed by those noisy few. At least that's my guess. I don't know that I know any vegetarians.
This is why vegetarians get mocked. Because they say stuff like "selfless lifestyle choice." On the other hand, I've never seen practicing Hindu's made fun of for their vegetarian diets, whether that's on the West coast or in the Midwest, because they're not wearing it on their sleeve as part of their identity.
I'm loving the rise of vegetarian/vegan food which has improved the quality and availability of non-meat dishes all over the place, but all sides of this mini culture war are insufferable.
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