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Title of Research Essay: Identify and explain a maximum of two main reasons for a rise in vegetarianism

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Title of Research Essay: Identify and explain a maximum of two main reasons for a rise in vegetarianism. Discuss the argument that this will become a dominant life choice for many people. Essay Plan Introduction Background • Vegetarianism began long time ago before Pythagoras. It was introduced in America in the year 1817 by a couple who had reached Philadelphia who introduced a vegetarian church (Avey, 2014). Vegetarianism became popular in the 20th and 21st century. • Parent preferences, religion and other cultural beliefs are the reason for people’s choice of being vegetarians (Rosenfeld, 2018). Scope Classifying these types of groups can be elusive as the characteristics of each group differ from the other. • Sympathizers: Call them healthy eaters. • Critics: Call them implicit. A group of individuals who abstain consumption of meat or animal byproducts and using their beliefs and reasons to manipulate others psychologically and health wise (Hamilton, 2000). Thesis: Moreover, this essay will exclusively concentrate on the reasons for the rise of vegetarianism today and determine how this dominant life has influenced many, which is why the critique perspective will be supported. Signposting The following essay will explain: ? Why individuals start vegetarian diets? ? Inadequate research and ethical issues on Vegetarian. ? Consequences of abstaining animal by products or meat. Section 1. Why individuals start vegetarian diets? 1.1 Health issues Topic sentence: Researchers in their attempt to find out the reason for increase in vegetarians have discovered that the main reason why vegetarianism is spreading progressively around the world is due to the increasing demand for a healthy lifestyle and increasing non-communicable diseases. o Most vegetarians are adults who need a healthy lifestyle to increase their lifespan. o Vegetarian food has been proved to reduce the risks of heart diseases, diabetes, obesity and hypertension. o Many individuals have been compelled to vegetarianism by health issues such as hypertension that led them to prescribed total abstinence from red meat and if intense total abstinence of any animal byproduct. o Additionally, problems such as stomach disorders and reflections in the skin has led to individuals to become vegetarians. Vegetarianism criticizes eating meat and as a movement of ideology, it offers individuals a meatless world. This visionary was started its implementation with the rise of Civil war in the 20th century, vegetarians turned out to be stronger than the non-vegetarians (Shprintzen, 2019). This thereby a rise of new vegetarian movement which was a prove that abstaining meat makes individuals stronger both physically and health wise. The second reason as to why vegetarianism is rising is due to cultural and religious beliefs of individuals. There are individuals who totally abstain from eating meat duet to their cultural and religious beliefs. For instance, the Islamic society do not eat pork due to their religious beliefs. Shprintzen in his article asserted that some beliefs prevent individuals from eating some types of meat ad if they cannot keep up with the temptation, they abstain from eating meat at all. Section 2 Inadequate research and ethical issues on Vegetarian. 2.1 Thought reform Topic sentence Ethics absence in regulating what individuals consume in both cultural and religious beliefs is one thing that has influenced the growth of vegetarianism in the society. In his article, Rosenfeld has noted that there has been insufficient research on vegetarianism and the reasons behind it (Rosenfeld, 2018). He has noted that only health issues and disorders should make individuals abstain from eating meat and not any other factor. Individuals should have the freedom to consume what they want and should not be limited by other individual’s beliefs or demands. Therefore, if there could be sufficient research and vegetarians’ ethics could have been set and individual would be allowed to consume what they want and not be limited. Understanding the difference between veganism and vegetarianism will help us define the religion and the health issues reason why individuals become vegetarians. Although the two involve abstinence from meat, veganism is stricter because it involves prohibition of milk, eggs, honey, and any other product derived from animals. Both are becoming popular in the world today. However, some individuals are unaware of the distinction between the two and somehow makes it difficult to choose on what’s healthy and what the body needs to be healthy. Veganism is more of a religious belief introduced to the world by the Vegan Society whereas the Vegetarianism is more of health issues compelling. When it comes to veganism, its more of a ‘cult’ recruiting individuals to join forces and avoid any animal products including its leather, wool or silk (Eske, 2019). For veganism, the society and religion is the main contributor and therefore individuals who have no knowledge on the risks of the society or its disadvantage may blindly follow it thus causing them more health problems than the benefits since one has to at least enjoy the benefit of animal products if not meat at least an egg or milk. On the other hand, vegetarianism is leading the way with health disorders and benefits. In vegetarian considering the types of vegetarians discussed above, there is at least one product taken which is healthy to the body of a human being. In addition, it is important to consider that today’s society consists of learned consumers who know the benefits and disadvantages of meatless life. therefore, we cannot as much blame the individual’s culture or religion in the individual’s decision. Also, most countries have freedoms and rights for everyone to choose for themselves the life they want to associate themselves into and therefore individuals can choose what they want to consume. Many individuals have realized the benefits of vegetables and their nutrition value in playing a part in fitness and health of their bodies. Consequently, with the society comprising of all types of individuals including the illiterate, it is a challenge for the society when it comes to vegetarianism. Section 3 Consequences of abstaining animal by products or meat. Abstaining from meat means not eating meat, fish or even poultry. Some religious and cultural beliefs even go to an extend to encourage their followers to abstain from any animal product not only the mat but also wool, leather, honey, silk among others (Doheny, 2019). Besides vegetarianism being ‘healthy eating’ patterns it also has its downside; o Increases the risk of stroke: In a study done in UK by British researchers, following more than 48000 people with no health history of stroke or heart diseases for about 18years, they found out that vegetarians had a lower risk of 13% of heart diseases than non-vegetarians but also had 20% higher risk of getting stroke than the latter. Which means that an increase of three more strokes every 10 years for a group of every 1000 people (Doheny, 2019). Although the was observational and no effect nor cause stated, vegetarians have a greater chance of stroke and therefore should look into what they are taking. o Brain health: Vegetarians diets have been found to cause “choline crisis.”Choline is found in meat and poultry and it is a nutrient essential for the health of a human brain and its functionality. Although not all vegetarians abstain completely from animal products, eating a few eggs could help boost the brain immunity and therefore they should consider one animal product supplement if not only meat. o Increased risk of hair loss: Avoiding meat has been recorded to increase the amount of hair shed by vegetarians. This is due to protein deficiency. This condition is known as Telogen Effluvium and its characterized by lifestyle changes and sometimes can be caused by stress or changes in individual’s hormones. Hair loss to vegetarians can be a real problem forcing others to joining therapy for their hair regrowth which is expensive. o Problems with an individual’s moods. Some studies discovered that avoiding meat improves an individual’s meat while others have discovered the opposite. In one study, researchers compared between vegans, vegetarians and people who eat both animal and plant products, the findings were, vegans had lower stress and anxiety levels than individuals who consume meat. Here as in another study of 400 new mothers, 80 were reported to have postpartum depression and one of the factors which influenced it was vegetarianism (Doheny, 2019). In both cases, moods are affected but there is a great possibility of a mental breakdown for vegetarians than the meat eaters although no specific effect or cause found. This essay has discussed the main reasons why vegetarianism is rising and how vegetarianism will become a dominant choice in life for many individuals. It has also discussed the consequences of vegetarianism. Therefore, with this knowledge, it is the duty of both the society, and the individual to decide on what they want to do with the information and how they can make their lives better as a vegetarian or non-vegetarian. The following are the recommendations of this topic: 1. People should have freedom in choosing what to eat irrespective of what their culture or religion prescribes since their bodies are personal as long as it wont affect their health. 2. Ethics in vegetarianism need to be incorporated in order to guide individuals in their choice of healthy living and eating. Reference Fox, N., & Ward, K. (2008) ‘Health, ethics, and environment: A qualitative study of vegetarian motivations’, Appetite, 50(2-3), pp.422-429. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2007.09.007 Janssen, M. et al., (2016) ‘Motives of consumers following a vegan diet and their attitudes towards animal agriculture’, Appetite, 105(September), pp.643-651. doi:10.1016/j.appet.2016.06.039 Medawar, E., Huhn, S., Villringer, A., & Veronica Witte, A. (2019) ‘The effects of plant-based diets on the body and the brain: a systematic review’, Translational Psychiatry, 9(1), pp. doi:10.1038/s41398-019-0552-0 Radnitz, C., Beezhold, B. and DiMatteo, J., (2015) ‘Investigation of lifestyle choices of individuals following a vegan diet for health and ethical reasons’, Appetite, 90(July), pp.31-36. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0195666315000732 (Accessed May 4, 2021) Shprintzen, A.D., (2016)’ The Vegetarian Crusade’, University of North Carolina Press. Available at: https://uncpress.org/book/9781469626529/the-vegetarian-crusade/ (Accessed May 3, 2021) Avey, T. (2014) ‘Food: From Pythagorean to Pescatarian. The Evolution of Vegetarianism’, PBS. Available at: https://www.pbs.org/food/the-history-kitchen/evolution-vegetarianism/ (Accessed May 3, 2021) Doheny, K. (2019) ‘Are There Health Downsides To Vegetarian Diets?’, NOURISH byWebMD.Available at: https://www.webmd.com/diet/obesity/news/20191104/are-there-health-downsides-tovegetarian-diets (Accessed May 3, 2021) Rosenfeld, D. L. (2018) ‘Why some choose vegetarian option: Are all ethical motivations the same?’, Motivation and Emotion,43(3),pp.400-411. Available at: https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Why-some-choose-the-vegetarian-option%3A -Are-all-the-Rosenfeld/01cc3e9e66b7aeab2b63d2888a56fa0dd4309fb6 (Accessed May 3, 2021) Lingel, G. (2018) ‘Culture: Vegetarianism: What It Means To Be A Vegetarian’, Sentient Media. Available at:https://sentientmedia.org/vegetarianism/ (Accessed May 3, 2021) Hamilton, M. (2000) ‘Eating ethically: ‘spiritual and ‘quasi- religious’ aspects of vegetarianism’, Taylor & Francis Online, Journal of Contemporary Religion, 15 (1), pp.65-83. Available at: https://foodethics.univie.ac.at/fileadmin/user_upload/inst_ethik_wiss_dialog/Hamilto n__M_2000_Eating_Ethically__Veg_and_Spiritual.pdf (Accessed May 3, 2021) Eske, J. (2019) ‘What is the difference between veganism and vegetarianism?’, Medical News Today. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325478 (Accessed May 3, 2021) Vocabulary List Word Definition Vegetarianism (n) A diet refraining from consumption of meat of any animal: red meat, poultry, fish, sea food or any animal which was killed for its meat” (Lingel, 2018) Organic (adj) Cross-sectional study (n) Omnivore (n) Body Mass Index (n) Vegan (n) A person who does not consume any animal product or any food that has been derived from animal or use any product. Veganism (n) The practice of abstaining any Example Relevance animal products use (Eske, 2019). Lacto-ovo-vegetarian These are individuals who are follow this diet type so that they can avoid consuming any type of meat or fish but they consume eggs and dairy products (Eske, 2019). Lacto-vegetarian Pescatarian These people only consume dairy products but do not eat any meat, fish or poultry (Eske, 2019). These individuals only eat fish and sea food but do not eat eggs, dairy products or any type of meat. They are mostly referred to as semi-vegetarian. Introduction The rise in vegetarianism is a profound problem that can affect either the physical well-being, emotional well-being, or general positivity of a given individual. When looking at vegetarianism, the younger generation, in recent years, has embraced plant-based food and rigorously enjoys the labors of fruits, veggies, and non-animal products entirely. Although some might contend this to be an unhealthy lifestyle, others believe it is the beginning step towards a life of cleanliness. Nonetheless, in the course of this paper, due diligence about the history of vegetarianism, the causes and effects, necessary stakeholders, and relevant information presents a unique insight into how vegetarianism is rising. Generally, the rise in vegetarianism can be caused by the inability of the meat industry to tailor its products, the increase in popularity amongst young people, and the general transition towards more health-conscious dietary choices. Part of the success of the vegetarian movement is the desire by many to live healthy and fulfilling lifestyles. In search of a more natural, healthy, and beneficial dietary plan, many adults look to prevent illness and other non-communicable diseases by fundamentally changing their diets and ridding themselves of all animal products. As such, the push for a healthy lifestyle serves as one of the essential points to explain the rise in popularity amongst vegetarianism and, in particular, the popularity in living healthy lifestyles. There is no denying the harmful effects of eating animal products, such as increases in hypertension, cholesterol, and other ailments like stomach disorders and skin diseases. At the same time, the push towards vegetarianism came as a result of a growing social movement towards a meatless world and the subsequent announcement of harmful meat processing processes and factory farming mechanisms. Studies also show that the vision was first implemented at the onset of the Civil War in the 20th century, which fundamentally disagreed with the common misconception that vegetarians are weaker than meat-eaters. As Shprintzen (2019) discusses, vegetarianism became increasingly popular after some found themselves not only stronger than their non-vegetarian counterparts, but they were also more engaged, more energized, and subsequently endured less hardship in the pre and post-war periods, which plagued the health of thousands of young Union and Confederate soldiers. Thus, the objective of the vegetarianism movement was to illustrate the adverse effects of animal products while simultaneously dispelling some of the common misconceptions related to vegetarianism, namely, the notion that individuals in this group were significantly weaker than meat-eaters. Section 1. Why individuals start vegetarian diets Part of the success of the vegetarian movement is the need by many to live healthy and fulfilling lifestyles. In search of a more natural, healthy, and beneficial dietary plan, many adults look to prevent illness and other noncommunicable diseases by fundamentally changing their diets and ridding themselves of all animal products. As such, the push for a healthy lifestyle serves as one of the essential points to explain the rise in popularity amongst vegetarianism and, in particular, the popularity in living healthy lifestyles. There is no denying the harmful effects of eating animal products, such as increases in hypertension, cholesterol, and other ailments like stomach disorders and skin diseases. Subheading? At the same time, the push towards vegetarianism came as a result of a subtle yet growing social movement towards a meatless world and the subsequent calling out of harmful meat processing processes and factory farming mechanisms. Studies also show that the vision was first implemented at the onset of the Civil War in the 20th century, which fundamentally disagree with the common misconception that vegetarians are weaker than meat-eaters. As Shprintzen (2019) discusses, vegetarianism became increasingly popular after some found themselves not only stronger than their non-vegetarian counterparts, but they were also more engaged, had more energy, and subsequently endured less hardship in the pre and post-war periods, which plagued the health of thousands of young Union and Confederate soldiers. Thus, the objective of the vegetarianism movement is to illustrate the adverse effects of animal products while simultaneously dispelling some of the common misconceptions related to vegetarianism. Namely, the notion that individuals in this group are significantly weaker than meat-eaters. 1. Parental Preferences There is a significant number of factors affecting parents’ dietary preferences and the inundation of those preferences on children. In other words, how much of a role do a parent’s dietary habits play in dictating the future earning habits of their children. This question is essential to understanding vegetarianism as it is undoubtedly a fundamental lifestyle change that can profoundly impact emotional and physical well-being. For those that elected to stray away from parent influence, there is ample evidence to support that individualism in the face of eating habits is a significant factor in identifying and self-reflecting personal preferences and attitudes toward meat or lack thereof. Children are very impressionable and are often swayed by the convictions and words of their parents, particularly in the types of foods they eat and subsequently like when they get older. Looking at the prevalence of imposing a vegetarian diet on children, parents can sometimes change the pallet and desires of their children by requiring them to follow the same dietary habits as themselves, which, if not monitored correctly, could have a damaging impact on the sustenance and nourishment of their child. Without proper guidance, “a child eating vegan could become malnourished” as it can dramatically curtail their ability to receive the nutrients (such as ample meat proteins) that have been proven to be effective in preventing diseases and building strong bones. With these habits developed early, when these children become young adults, they could find themselves angry or frustrated at their parents for refraining from the ‘status quo’ dietary plans and instead supplementing a diet full of vegetables and non-animal products. Most vegan people are incredibly conscious about their food. They will always answer questions about the intake of vital supplements like calcium, protein, and iron while not recognizing that those essential elements are located in non-animal products. In a sense, by pushing a vegan diet on one’s children, they educate them about the importance of nutrition and remaining in good spirits about the type of food they are eating and the ethical component associated with the decision. For others, the decision to invoke a fully vegan diet has been a part of their culture for centuries and is merely a way of life that many have decided to live, just like those before them. From a nutritional standpoint, children need to understand that their decisions about the food they eat should focus on one essential element: proper nourishment. Animal products, and today’s food environment, is full of cholesterol, saturated animal fats, refined sugars, flours, and empty calories, with many products containing an immense amount of trans fats and artificial colors. Parenting is an important responsibility, and every parent should ensure that their decisions are in the best interest of their children. Then again, opponents of imposing these beliefs on children do so from an autonomy perspective. In other words, children should be allowed to partake in any dietary plan they wish to, and without influence or recourse by their parents to fit the mold they want for them to fit. Yet, until these children gain more independence and are capable of making these critical decisions for themselves, it is clear that imposing a vegan diet on one’s children can not only be beneficial in the short term but dramatically helpful in the long-term from an educational and health perspective. 2. Cultural Considerations There is ample consideration for the dietary supplement and nutrition plans for modern human beings. Nothing is more important than the health and well-being of personal selves. Fulfilling maintaining health while simultaneously exercising is an assuring point of agreement between vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Over the years, a profound rise in popularity for vegetarianism grew from young adults and young people in general who wish to embrace plant-based substitutions with open arms and identify the significant points of convention between factory farming, invaluable agricultural practices, and exploitation of migrant workers who supply the products. One of the most important reasons for vegetarianism lies in the cultural consideration and context it was established in. For the present paper, the country of India hallmarks an excellent comparative study of vegetarianism in a modern classical and cultural sense. According to reports by the FAO and USDA (2020), an estimated 40 percent of India’s population are vegetarian. Although most Indians continue to eat meat, they do so on an infrequent basis, and less than 30 percent consume it regularly. In India, the history of vegetarianism and a meat-free diet began in the Indus Valley. It was a sign of severe respect and reverence for animal life and everyday people. Consumption of animal products is embodied in several religious and cultural texts, emphasizing the three most prominent religions Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. From India to Israel, several people and cultures have engaged in plant-based diets and have been for centuries. To simply cut milk and dairy out of their diet is a difficult decision because the desire to consume such products is entirely from the context of where the individual is living and the cultural aspects that they have been accustomed to or assimilated towards. Whether for cultural or religious reasons, being a vegetarian is merely a part of life for man, particularly those who live in the global south. Nonetheless, irrespective of the personal beliefs of ideologies of vegetarianism, the overall context lies in both the ideals of kindness and nonviolence towards all living things and a deep and profound hatred for modern agricultural practices related to food production, namely the prevalence of factory farming. 3. Factory Farming One of the most influential aspects of vegetarianism is the subtle disdain for the current framework for food production and factory farming issues. Ethical issues about the treatment of animals are a significant factor in the popularity of vegetarianism because it displays the holistic approach for many young adults and culturally conscious individuals who do not wish to perpetuate the factory farming industry by purchasing animal products. Hopefully, by switching to a vegetarian diet, these MNCs responsible for food production will recognize the fault in their ways and transition from barbaric factory farming practices to those of free-range and effective planning. One significant, and often overlooked aspect of the vegan movement, is the rise in digital media and capturing devices. Innovations in technology have enabled consumers with a modified review and rating system with a button touch. They can record the brutal and inhumane practices of significant food conglomerates like Tyson Foods Inc. They have thousands of factory farms all across the world, slaughtering and butchering each chicken as if it were an assembly line. Moreover, the nature of contemporary agriculture has imposed several unintended implications about the use of hormones and chemicals to increase the productivity of the chickens (i.e., making them fatter, quicker) while also not understanding the damaging impacts it can have on the consumers buying the product. Other considerations related to the rise in infectious diseases and the unsanitary conditions these factors so often impose a significant barrier to the public and private industries attempting to show that their product is safe and nutritional while having to deal with the adverse complications of dysentery and sick animals. Without proper guidance and regulation, it is unclear what the future of factory farming will look like. Still, the onslaught of media (both in devices and outlets) allows consumers and proponents of the vegan movement to showcase to meat-eaters what they are eating and where it is coming from. The rise in media has had a profound effect on the general public. The palpability of documentaries like Food Inc. presents a unique picture into the life of contemporary factory farming and the desire to stay away from supporting companies or organizations that partake in it. Conclusion Overall, the decision to utilize an all-vegetarian diet is a personal decision that many make depending on the context of the situation or in the presence of their doctors and relative care team. The rise in popularity associated with this movement was identified in three distinct categories ranging from the youth movement and health consciousness that they seem to improve while simultaneously condemning the practices of contemporary agriculture through the barbarism of factory farming. Some are triggered into the lifestyle by a love for animals and a desire to increase their environmental awareness about essential and volatile issues while simultaneously making one more compassionate and susceptible to the positive nature of the vegan cause. There is also much to be said about the demographic composition of the Vegetarian movement, namely the high influx of white, cis-gendered males who are highly educated and come from a stable and loving home. The organized vegetarian action is multifaceted, but all of the different groups and sub-groups invoke a commitment to specific values and principles that start with a self-reflective interpretation of one’s own moral and ethical code. Vegetarianism is a lifestyle that is entirely influenced by the internal and external contexts of the individual. Some are vegetarian in just name only, while others actively fight against the exploitation of consumers and the unfathomable treatment of animals, who, by all accounts, deserve the same level of respect and admiration as society provides to human beings. Annotated Bibliography March 14, 2021 Provisional title of Research Essay: Identify and explain a maximum of two main reasons for a rise in vegetarianism. Discuss the argument that this will become a dominant life choice for many people. Fox, N., & Ward, K. (2008) ‘Health, ethics, and environment: A qualitative study of vegetarian motivations’, Appetite, 50(2-3), pp.422-429. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2007.09.007 Fox and Ward, who specialized in Health related research at the University of Sheffield, where they conducted research to identify vegetarians' motivators. The research methodology used was mixed-method, qualitative and experimental, with the incorporation of ethnographic research. Purposive sampling was used, and the sample size was composed of 33 participants who responded with e-mail interviews. The research hypothesis was that the primary motivators for participants' vegetarianism were the ethical treatment of animals. The data results suggested that vegetarians with initial motivators may in time augment themselves to further restricting themselves to and or sustaining the diet. However, the polls came up with outstanding findings; 45% of the respondents found that they were ethically motivated to be vegetarians, 27% were motivated health-wise, while the remainder were motivated for aesthetic reasons and religion. It was then concluded from the research that health and ethical reasoning were the leading motivators for vegetarians, with environmental commitments being the least. The qualitative study of this report mainly relies on the internet sampling technique, hence it is likely that younger populace of vegetarians would obtain a higher representation than their counterparts. Therefore, distortion or unfair representation of generational diversity may be present in the study resulting in a possible generalization of the population based off of the ideals of the youth. However, the article is still relevant in this research as it presents the environmental commitments and the health and ethical reasoning as they are the dominating motivators of people turning to a vegan diet. Word Count: 249 Janssen, M. et al., (2016) ‘Motives of consumers following a vegan diet and their attitudes towards animal agriculture’, Appetite, 105(September), pp.643-651. doi:10.1016/j.appet.2016.06.039 This article, authored by Meike Janssen, an Associate Professor at Copenhagen Business School, Claudia Busch, a researcher at the University of Applied Science and Art – Gottingen, and lastly Manika Rodiger, a Scientific Assistant and Ulrich Hamm, a marketing researcher at Universitat Kassel, Germany. The authors in this article intended to identify various consumer groups and their motivators by studying their ideals towards a vegan diet. Quantitative methodology was used in the research whereby seven vegan supermarkets, involving 329 consumers where they participated in face-to-face interviews. The results of the analysis of the data retrieved was that 89.7% of respondents had humane motivators in search of just treatment, 69.3% of the respondents had personal well-being-related motives, 46.8% of respondents had environment related motives, and 81.8% of respondents had more than a single motive towards a vegan diet. The authors concluded that most vegan consumers sustained interests in multiple motivator pools rather than singular, sole, motive for their commitment. The study encompassed a large sample size which helps in fine-tuning results for generalization on the larger population thus increasing its reliability. However, in that lies its limitation as although it encompassed a larger sample, it sought to exclude the populace below the age of 25 and above the age of 60. Altogether, removing a large group of new age thinkers and the wizened/experienced population thereby skewing the data. The proportion of this article will help clarify consumer motives and perceptions towards an ethical business scenario, for instance, the handling of products. Word Count: 246 Radnitz, C., Beezhold, B. and DiMatteo, J., (2015) ‘Investigation of lifestyle choices of individuals following a vegan diet for health and ethical reasons’, Appetite, 90(July), pp.31-36. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0195666315000732 (Accessed: 9 March, 2021) The authors of this article, Radnitz and DiMatteo who are psychologists from the School of Psychology in Fairleigh Dickinson University, while Beezhold is a nutritionist affiliated with Benedictine University. This article seeks to understand the lifestyle choices of individuals that follow vegan diets for either ethical or healthy reasons. The main hypothesis is that the people who choose to follow vegan diets for health reasons consume foods with higher nutritional value compared to those who do so for ethical reasons. The research study conducted an online survey that collected an unspecified international sample of 246 individuals currently adhering to vegan diets. Results showed that those who adhered to vegan diets because of health reasons ate more fruits and fewer sweets compared to those who did so because of ethical reasons. However, those who endorsed ethical reasons for adherence to vegan diets portrayed relatively much more commitment to the diet than their counterparts. The limitation of this article is that the size of samples that the authors used was relatively small which results in poorly derived generalization of the populaces as it reduces the accuracy of assumption of the same results over a larger population. In addition the author also state that more research is needed to solidify the findings, therefore admitting them as non-concrete. However, this article will still be critical for my research because it further breaks down the reasoning behind populations that commit to vegan diets, therefore clarifying the scope of motivators and the sustenance of such commitments. Word Count: 250