Challenges of Animal Rights and Vegan Activism

Animal rights and vegan activism have seen little success in increasing vegetarianism in the United States over the past 50 years, marking it as a largely unsuccessful social movement. While some individuals may show marginal interest in reducing meat consumption, these changes often do not endure. A significant challenge lies in the emotional resistance people have to being confronted with their dietary choices, which can evoke feelings of guilt and shame. Delivering messages that label cherished traditions or comfort foods as cruel or immoral can be particularly difficult, making it challenging to engage individuals in meaningful dietary change.