Sociology Thesis Kymmi Donaghue.pdf

Meat consumption and the raising of farm animals for slaughter is a practice that is well ingrained in our society, yet the implications are rarely discussed. 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? An internet survey of 167 college students at the University of Oregon, Lane Community College and Concordia University was conducted in order to assess values surrounding farm animals. The survey asked questions concerning the treatment of farm animals, farming practices, and dietary preferences. Preliminary findings suggest that 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. Results also suggested that people in oppressed demographic categories may have an increased sensitivity toward the oppression of animals.