Presenter(s): Kymmi Donaghue
Faculty Mentor(s): Clare Evans & CJ Pascoe
Poster 101
Session: Social Sciences & Humanities
Meat consumption is a practice that is well ingrained in our society. The diets of most individuals in the United States are heavily meat dependent, yet the meat industry perpetuated by violence and frequently by the exploitation of members of marginalized communities. Sociological examination of values surrounding farm animals and the meat industry is important, as taking a deeper look into practices that are considered normal in our society can provide insight into their implications and how people actually feel about them. This research seeks to answer the question: How do values surrounding farm animals vary across gender, race, socioeconomic status, and LGBTQIA+ community membership? The hypothesis is that members of oppressed groups will answer in ways that indicate an increased sensitivity to the oppression of animals. An qualtrics survey of 167 college students at University of Oregon, Lane Community College and Concordia University was conducted in order to assess values surrounding farm animals. The survey asked questions concerning treatment of farm animals, farming practices, and dietary preferences based on a typology of animal values created by Stephen Kellert. Results are analyzed using R. Preliminary findings suggest those who identify as Christian value the material use of farm animals more than those who indicated having no religion. The majority of all respondents across all demographic categories agree that factory farming practices are inhumane, farm animals should be treated with compassion, and that it is important to take into account the environmental effects of the meat industry when making meat purchases.