ABSTRACT
The purpose of this introduction is twofold. First, the authors explain the rise of new omnivorism, which is the novel position in food and animal ethics that posits that a commitment to animal welfare entails that it’s permissible, if not obligatory, to consume some animal products. New omnivores emphasize that many animals are harmed in arable agriculture and that worldwide meat consumption is on the rise, and while they agree that industrial animal agriculture is morally problematic, they point out there are other ways to procure animal products and that consuming certain kinds of animal products does not promote animal harm but promises to minimize it. Strict vegans have criticized new omnivores on various grounds, and the debate continues. Second, the authors summarize each chapter of the book, highlighting how the chapters defend either a strict vegan or new omnivore view.
