The Making, Killing and Consuming of Food Animals: An Analysis of Practices of Eating Animals and Cultural Difference

Abstract

The aim of this study was to understand how discussions regarding the animals we eat not only affect the position and value of animals in different societies but also shape larger debates about cultural difference. To this end, the research question was: How are different cultural identities of Western and non-Western subjects shaped in the discourses surrounding eating animals and what are the consequences for our views on diverse cultures? This thesis reveals that when controversies surrounding meat practices arise, competing parties often focus on certain aspects and ignore the complex relationship between different ethical values, which is problematic because it leads to limited change and leaves multiple parties unsatisfied. Practices and debates regarding meat consumption play an essential part in cultural identity building. The first chapter examines what animals are deemed to be edible, which depends on more than a pragmatic approach towards food. Considering the push in Australia to position the kangaroo as a food animal, the language used in debates surrounding the kangaroo industry is examined to demonstrate that the edibility of animals depends on more than practical reasons. Diverse sentiments connected to ideas of nationalism and identity have played key roles in the debate regarding the role of the kangaroo as a food animal. The second chapter examines the morality of animal slaughtering practices using the debate regarding political slaughtering in the Netherlands as a case study. The analysis reveals that opponents and proponents share several concerns regarding the meat industry and demonstrates possibilities for shifts from cultural differences towards commonalities are present within the debate. The third chapter considers the consequences and cultural economic value of meat production and consumption. Meat consumption is increasing globally, which has multiple effects, especially on an environmental level. Perceptions of China’s meat consumption in Australia and the Netherlands are influenced by national identity and values. Narratives related to China’s increasing meat consumption are influenced by global changes, national and cultural values and economic drivers. The final chapter of the thesis applies posthuman theory to argue for new approaches towards ethical concerns regarding meat-eating practices. This thesis argues that how we think about food animals goes beyond their nutritional value. Values regarding food animals are embedded in complex social structures. Therefore, concerns regarding food animals should not be approached as objective questions requiring set answers, but instead as debates that are contingent on broader changes in cultural values and identity.