The non-vegan spectrum

To help us be more effective communicators with the non-vegans in our lives, it really helps to know where they are on the non-vegan spectrum.

This spectrum concept I’ve created to help myself to understand the often puzzling reactions that I get from people and to communicate more effectively with them from there. 

Note: This spectrum describes the way that people view veganism and vegans as a group, not necessarily you as an individual. 

A person may be a vehement anti-vegan hater. They may think veganism is a cult. Yet they may still love you personally, as a friend or family member. 

OK, here it is. The non-vegan spectrum… 

The oblivious / uninterested

What they think: Veganism is just one of many dietary preferences they don’t understand.

What they say: Nothing. They’re not really interested.

What they do: Serve you a gluten free pizza laden with animal products.

The jokers

What they think: Vegans are weirdos – fair game for ridicule.

What they do: Tell jokes at the expense of vegans/vegetarians. Try to trick you into eating animal products. 

What they say: “Hey – I’m just having a laugh! Can’t you take a joke?”

The haters

What they think: Vegans are judgmental, bleeding-heart do-gooders who shame others and need to be put in their place. And they’re in a cult. Or part of some global conspiracy.

What they do: Find “alternative facts” to argue against what you say. Get angry (and sometimes personal). They ask loaded questions to try to catch you out.

What they say: “Plants have feelings too…Vegan food kills more animals through crop deaths…Veganism is worse for the planet...” 

The curious

What they think: Vegans could be right. It might be worth trying.

What they do: Taste your food. Ask for the recipe.

What they say: “Where do you get your protein?” and other genuine questions like “Why are eggs and dairy not ok?”  

The appeasers

What they think: I know vegans are right, I just can’t see myself committing to something so extreme. I’ll just do my best within my own comfort zone.

What they do: Meat free Monday. Buy free range eggs/chicken. Switch to oat milk for their coffee.

What they say: “I’ve reduced my meat consumption and only buy organic/free range.”

The converts

What they think: I need to go vegan. 

What they do: Educate themselves. Start to make changes. Join vegan groups. Ask lots of questions and implement what they learn.

What they say: Can you give me advice on how to do this?