Carnism

Carnism is a concept used in discussions of humanity's relationship with animal life and the ethics of eating meat. The term was coined by social psychologist Melanie Joy in 2001 and is defined as a dominant ideology in which it is considered ethical and appropriate to consume certain animal products.

Definition and Origins

Carnism is a belief system, or ideology, that conditions people to support the use and consumption of animal products, especially meat. Carnism is essentially the opposite of veganism; while vegans reject the consumption of all animal products, carnists accept and normalize the practice.

The term "carnism" was coined by Melanie Joy, a social psychologist and vegan activist, in 2001. Joy introduced the term in her book Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows. She argues that carnism is a "dominant belief system" that is so deeply ingrained in society that it is considered a given rather than a choice.

Ethical Considerations

Carnism is often discussed in the context of ethical debates about animal rights and the environmental impact of meat production. Critics of carnism argue that it involves unnecessary harm to animals and contributes to environmental degradation. They also point out that carnism often involves a disconnect between the love many people feel for animals and the practice of eating them.

Supporters of carnism, on the other hand, often argue that eating meat is a natural part of human biology and culture. They may also point to the nutritional benefits of consuming animal products.

See Also

• Veganism
• Vegetarianism
• Animal rights
• Environmental impact of meat production