Running head: SELF-REFLECTION 1

Self-Reflection:
A Flexitarian Identity
Tiara Volpe
Ottawa University
May 30, 2014

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Self-Reflection:
A Flexitarian Identity
Every individual is unique due to the combination of varying identities that form the
sense of self. Identities are developed through communication and influenced by cultural
upbringing (Martin and Nakayama, 2014). While there are many identities that can describe this
student, one such is a flexitarian.
Flexitarianism is a relatively new idea that may be described simply as semi-
vegetarianism. There is not a strict set of rules governing this lifestyle. Flexitarians may operate
by their own standards but the general notion is a conscious effort to reduce meat consumption.
This writers personal flexitarian diet restricts meat consumption from factory farms, essentially
refraining from animal products that were not organically produced (Vegetarian Nation, 2014).
Personal Development of Flexitarianism
Unlike many identities that are inherent, such as physical traits or birth order, the
development of a flexitarian mindset was a conscious decision. The decision was made upon
watching a documentary about factory farming in America. The footage demonstrated the harsh
living conditions to which the animals are subjected.
Nearly all animals in a factory farm never see the light of day or breathe fresh air. So
many chickens are stuffed into tiny cages that they cannot even spread their wings and end up
pecking each others eyes out. Brutal orchiectomies are performed on piglets without the use of
anesthesia or antibiotics, therefore many of them die of infection. The dead animals are packed
tightly into cages with their live counterparts, who do not have enough room to even stand
(WHY vegetarian, 2012).
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Upon viewing these images, this student greatly empathized with the animals suffering.
The emotions which followed reciprocated between anguish and rage. The documentary
stimulated the following questions: Why is this legal? Why are the American people allowing
this to happen? Why is there legislation against showing the public the truth behind their dinner?
There are some farmers in America who do not subject animals to such cruelty. Food
products from these farms are labeled USDA Certified Organic. In order to obtain this seal, the
farm must ensure each animal has enough square footage to live comfortably and they are
guaranteed fresh air and sunlight. Animals from USDA Certified Organic farms receive proper
nutrition, unlike the corn-fed cows in factory farms. Organically raised animals are not brutally
beaten for the livestock workers enjoyment, but rather cared for until a quick and humane death
is delivered (United States Department of Agriculture, 2014). This is the premise of the
aforementioned flexitarian lifestyle.
Advantages and Disadvantages
As with any lifestyle change, there are some associated advantages and disadvantages.
Personal advantages following the implementation of a flexitarian diet were weight loss, due to
the substitution of vegetables for meat, and other general health benefits. Organic beef, resulting
from cows feeding on grass rather than corn, has less saturated fat than beef produced in a
factory farm. According to the American Heart Association (2014), a diet high in saturated fat is
linked to high cholesterol and subsequent heart disease.
Not only is a flexitarian diet beneficial to the practicing individual, but also to the
environment as a whole. Raphaely and Marinova (2014) reported that most greenhouse gas
emissions world-wide can be traced back to the livestock division in America. Reducing the
consumption of meat is directly proportional to reducing the rate of climate change and the
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devastating effects of global warming. Consequently, every individual has the opportunity to
improve their own health and the health of the Earth.
Alternatively, there are some disadvantages associated with this students personal
rendition of flexitarianism. Organic meat is expensive. Due to the effect of the food quality on
the grocery bill, this writers personal diet resembles that of a vegetarian.
In addition to price, inconvenience is another disadvantage. Aside from the organic food
marts and locally owned restaurants which boast the use of locally grown, sustainable
ingredients, organic meat is not readily available. This can hinder social experiences. At times it
may be necessary to eat prior to attending social gatherings where food is provided.
Communication
As previously mentioned, identities are developed through communication. Developing a
flexitarian identity was developed in a similar manner, through television media. This identity is
further developed through interpersonal communication, as well.
Upon interacting with other flexitarians and vegetarians, there is generally a sense of
excitement, as well as comfort, associated with finding a kindred spirit. Oftentimes, recipes are
exchanged. This also presents an opportunity to recount personal experiences that only like-
minded individuals may relate.
Interactions among vegetarians can also have a negative aspect due to the varying levels
of vegetarianism. Vegetarians and vegans who abide by more stringent guidelines may judge
flexitarians for consuming any meat, whether organic or not. This produces an opportunity for
conflict.
Communication with those who are not conscious of their meat consumption has altered
more drastically. The opportunity to educate people of the horrors of factory farming is
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necessary, but only during proper times. The dinner table is an inappropriate place for extensive
education of this topic because it is impolite to ruin anothers meal. While education is essential,
it is also important to be non-judgmental. Forcing personal values onto others is not an ideal
state. People are entitled to live their lives by their own accord.
General Thoughts and Observations
Up to this point in the discussion, it may be apparent that there are some conflicting
emotions associated with the flexitarian mentality. As previously discussed, having the
opportunity to educate people about this issue is appreciated. Changing Americas mindset to
make the public more conscious of the impact of their food choices would result in a healthier
nation and planet.
Alternatively, inconveniencing others is an unpleasant feeling. Some hosts make an extra
effort to provide organic food at their social gatherings. While this is very appreciated and
beneficial for everyone involved, inconveniencing others can lead to feelings of uneasiness.
It is hypothesized that many people judge this lifestyle and presume those who follow it
to like being difficult. It may appear as if the main objective is simply to create conflict.
Unfortunately, fighting for justice and ones values can produce conflict.
Some people argue that it is asinine to care about the treatment of animals who are just
going to die anyway. The reality is that humans are going to die anyway, too. Their reasoning
would suggest that it does not matter how humans are treated while on this Earth, either. Surely,
everyone would disagree with this notion.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that whether killing animals for human sustenance is morally wrong or
justified, there is no argument for the vile nature in which factory farms operate. It is simply
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inhumane. This summarizes the personal mindset of a flexitarian. Being flexitarian is just one of
the many identities that form this students self-concept.

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References
American Heart Association. (2014). Saturated fats. Retrieved from www.heart.org on May 31,
2014.
Martin, J.N., & Nakayama, T.K. (2014). Experiencing intercultural communication: An
introduction (5th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
Raphaely, T., & Marinova, D. (2014). Flexitarianism: Decarbonising through flexible
vegetarianism. Renewable Energy: An International Journal, 67(9), 0-96. doi:
10.1016/j.renene.2013.11.030.
United States Department of Agriculture. (2014). Organic Agriculture. Retrieved from
www.usda.gov on May 31, 2014.
Vegetarian Nation. (2014). Types of vegetarianism. Retrieved from www.vegetarian-
nation.com on May 28, 2014.
WHY vegetarian. (2012). [Motion picture]. Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhBWDzkqEPY on May 31, 2014.