Beyond Hippies and Rabbit Food: The Social Effects of Vegetarianism and Veganism

Depending on the actors involved and the environment, vegetarians and vegans may either be met with acceptance, tolerance, or hostility when they divulge their dietary practices. By interviewing vegetarians and vegans about these social interactions, this study has sought to conceptualize the subjects’ treatment as well as their feelings and actions. Throughout the study ethnographic methods have been used, as well as identity and social deviance theory, and historical information about the evolution of vegetarianism. All this has led to a better understanding of how vegetarians and vegans balance their alternative lifestyle with mainstream