Introduction

Vegetarianism and veganism have often been met with skepticism and concern, with some even labeling them as 'extreme'. However, such perceptions are vastly misleading and decidedly alarmist. Personally, my approach to these dietary choices is simply a balanced lifestyle that aligns with my preferences. For instance, I opt for a vegan diet for breakfast and lunch, and occasionally lean towards vegetarian or omnivore options for dinner, depending on the occasion. Sometimes, I even skip meals entirely and opt for a light appetizer with a drink instead.

The Misconception of 'Extravagance' in Vegetarianism and Veganism

While there are individuals who advocate for a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle with zeal, it is not the adherence to these diets itself that is considered extreme. The general populace usually does not mind what others eat, as long as it does not affect them negatively. What does elicit a negative reaction is the behavior of some vegetarians and vegans that is perceived as aggressive and overbearing.

Bullying and terrorizing others about their food choices is not a mark of health or morality, but rather an indication of an unhealthy mindset. Obsessive-compulsive behavior in dietary choices can sometimes stem from deeper psychological issues, which can be distressing for the individuals involved, as highlighted in Lierre Keith's “The Vegetarian Myth.” Such behaviors include blocking aisles in supermarkets, protesting at butcher shops, and engaging in aggressive behavior, all of which contribute to a stereotypical image of extremism.

The Evolution of Vegetarianism and Veganism

The term 'vegetarian' was first used in 1838 at the Alcott House in London. The community at Alcott House followed a strict vegan diet, with all meals served cold, except for hot potatoes, and rejected all animal-derived foods, including meat, dairy, eggs, and animal stimulants like mustard, salt, vinegar, and spices. However, in 1880, the vegetarian society in Manchester allowed its sister-group to include eggs, dairy, and in some cases, fish, which was a significant blow to the vegetarian movement and led to its fracturing.

The group that remained true to the strict vegan principles would go on to create the term 'veganism' in 1920. This term was specifically designed to avoid being co-opted by those who exploit animals. Vegetarians often make inconsistent claims, and their choices are not fundamentally different from those of other animal product eaters. Studies suggest that most individuals who identify as vegetarian do so because they believe they are better, yet lack the self-awareness or desire to recognize their inconsistencies.

From Self-Importance to Self-Awareness

When a person is overly self-important, they often disregard reality in favor of their own reflections. This state of mind can be temporary, but many vegetarians eventually wake up to the fact that their dietary preferences do not necessarily make them morally superior. Some have even gone on to adopt a vegan lifestyle, recognizing the inconsistencies in their initial beliefs and the impact on the environment and animals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the perception of vegetarianism and veganism as 'extreme' is largely based on a misunderstanding of the behavior of some individuals within these communities. These behaviors are more indicative of psychological issues than a commitment to a healthy and moral lifestyle. Understanding the history and evolution of these dietary choices helps to clarify the intentions behind different decisions and highlights the importance of recognizing personal inconsistencies and evolving one's approach to life.