Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows

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Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows: An Introduction to Carnism is a book by Melanie Joy, a social psychologist and professor of psychology and sociology at the University of Massachusetts Boston. The book, published in 2010, explores the concept of carnism, a term coined by Joy to describe the belief system that conditions people to eat certain animals while regarding others as pets or unfit for consumption.

Overview

The book delves into the psychological and cultural mechanisms that underpin carnism. Joy argues that carnism is an invisible system of beliefs that conditions people to eat animals such as pigs, cows, and chickens, while loving and protecting others like dogs and cats. This system is maintained through a variety of social and psychological mechanisms, including cognitive dissonance, denial, and justification.

Key Concepts

Carnism

Carnism is the central concept of the book. Joy defines it as the invisible belief system, or ideology, that conditions people to eat certain animals. This ideology is supported by a range of social norms and cultural practices that make the consumption of certain animals seem natural, normal, and necessary.

Cognitive Dissonance

Cognitive dissonance is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when people experience discomfort due to holding conflicting beliefs or behaviors. In the context of carnism, cognitive dissonance arises when people care about animals but also eat them. Joy explains how people resolve this dissonance through mechanisms such as denial and justification.

Denial and Justification

Denial and justification are key mechanisms that support carnism. Denial involves ignoring or minimizing the reality of animal suffering, while justification involves rationalizing the consumption of animals through arguments such as "it's natural" or "it's necessary."

Impact and Reception

The book has been influential in the fields of animal rights and veganism. It has been praised for its insightful analysis of the psychological and cultural factors that support meat consumption. Joy's work has inspired many to reconsider their dietary choices and has contributed to the growing movement towards plant-based diets.

See Also

• Animal rights
• Veganism
• Plant-based diet
• Cognitive dissonance
• Ideology