Vegans have a marketing problem: they're perceived to be annoying, self-righteous, judgmental, and inflexible.
Author Matthew Halteman's book Hungry Beautiful Animals is designed to fix that perception and make veganism more appealing and less threatening.
Visit Matt Halteman's website about Hungry Beautiful Animals.
He appears on the WanderLearn Show four times! Listen or watch all 4 episodes below:
#1 Does Going Vegan Have To Suck?
Matthew Halteman and I discuss his book Hungry Beautiful Animals. Here's the timeline of our discussion in case you want to skip to a section.
00:00 Intro
04:30 Marketing Problem?
07:00 Practical Tips
10:00 Kindergarten Values
12:00 Abstract food
16:30 Aspirations
20:40 Fish
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#2 What Do Vegans Think about Lab-Grown Meat?
Lab-grown meat has many other names:
- Cultivated Meat: This term is increasingly favored as it accurately describes growing meat from animal cells in a controlled environment.
- Cell-Based Meat: This name emphasizes that the meat is derived from animal cells rather than whole animals, highlighting its scientific origins.
- Cultured Meat: Like cultivated meat, this term refers to meat produced through cellular agriculture techniques.
- Clean Meat: This term was popular among early advocates, suggesting a more ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional meat.
- Synthetic Meat: This name indicates that the product is artificially created, which can evoke mixed consumer reactions.
- Slaughter-Free Meat: This term appeals to ethical consumers concerned about animal welfare and the implications of traditional meat production.
Matthew Halteman and I discuss his book Hungry Beautiful Animals. Here's the timeline of our discussion in case you want to skip to a section.
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#3 Tips on Taking Baby Steps To Becoming Vegan
Matthew Halteman and I discuss his book Hungry Beautiful Animals. Here's the timeline of our discussion in case you want to skip to a section.
00:00 Know yourself
05:15 Negotiating and compromising
09:15 Cognitive Dissonance
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#4 Are Vegans Unhealthy?
Matthew Halteman and I discuss his book Hungry Beautiful Animals.
Professor Halteman mentions NutritionFacts.org.
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Book review
In his excellent book "The Better Angels of Our Nature," Steven Pinker observed that humanity has become less barbarous with each passing century.
Consider the improvements to:
- Women's rights
- Gay rights
- Racism
- Slavery
- Death penalty
- Wars
- Prisons
Pinker was asked, "What will people in the 22nd century think of us? What are we doing that will seem barbarous and immoral to future humans?"
Pinker said (I'm paraphrasing), "The way almost everyone financially supports the barbarous and inhumane treatment of animals by buying and eating animals."
True.
Today's vegans are like the anti-slavery people 200 years ago: annoying, and everyone wished they would just go away.
How can vegans be more inviting? It seems like an all-or-nothing club.
This book says, "Relax. You're welcome to join the tribe."
Hungry Beautiful Animals is a vibrant and engaging exploration of veganism.
The book stands out for its joyful and inclusive approach, aiming to transform the often polarizing topic of veganism into an inviting conversation.
Halteman's writing can be too verbose, but it is filled with humor and anecdotes that resonate regardless of one's dietary choices.
### Key Themes
- Joy and Kindness: Halteman emphasizes that adopting a vegan lifestyle can be a source of joy rather than a burden. He encourages readers to view veganism as a journey filled with possibilities rather than a strict set of rules that can lead to feelings of shame or guilt.
- Personal Stories: The book is rich with anecdotes that illustrate the interconnectedness of all living beings. For instance, Halteman reflects on moments his dog (Gus), who inspired him to write this book.
- Community Focus: Halteman invites readers from all backgrounds to join in a collective movement towards kindness and compassion for animals, promoting the idea that everyone is welcome in this exploration of veganism, even if you're not hardcore, full-time.
- Practical Guidance: Beyond philosophical discussions, the book provides practical suggestions for leading a more animal-friendly life, including tips on creating pollinator-friendly habitats in one's yard.
The book offers profound insights and the ability to provoke thought without condemnation.
It is an engaging read that challenges preconceived notions about veganism while fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Overall, Hungry Beautiful Animals is a book about veganism and an invitation to live more compassionately and joyfully with all beings.
VERDICT: 9 out of 10 stars!
