Some We Love, Some We Hate, Some We Eat

Some We Love, Some We Hate, Some We Eat examines humanity's complex relationships with animals through the lens of anthrozoology - the study of human-animal interactions. Herzog draws from scientific research, cultural analysis, and personal experiences to explore the contradictions in how humans treat different species. The book investigates topics like why some people eat meat while keeping pets, how culture shapes our views of which animals are food versus friends, and the psychology behind animal activism. Herzog presents research on cockfighting, animal testing, pet-keeping practices, and vegetarianism to illustrate the inconsistencies in human moral reasoning about animals. The text includes fieldwork observations, interviews, and studies from disciplines including psychology, anthropology, and ethics. Herzog maintains an objective stance while documenting both mainstream and fringe perspectives on human-animal relationships. This work challenges readers to examine their own beliefs about animals and consider how emotion, logic, and cultural programming influence those views. The book raises fundamental questions about moral relativism and the basis for human treatment of other species.

Readers describe this book as thought-provoking and accessible, examining human-animal relationships without pushing a specific agenda. The conversational tone and mix of research with personal anecdotes keeps the material engaging. Readers appreciated: - Balanced exploration of complex ethical issues - Clear explanations of research studies - Herzog's willingness to admit his own contradictions - Humor throughout serious topics Common criticisms: - Some sections feel repetitive - Not enough depth on certain topics - Too many anecdotes for some readers - Lack of concrete conclusions One reader noted: "Herzog asks good questions but doesn't provide many answers." Another wrote: "Perfect for starting discussions about our inconsistent treatment of animals." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (6,700+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (300+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.2/5 (40+ ratings) The book resonates most with readers interested in psychology and animal ethics who prefer exploring questions over definitive answers.

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🔹 Author Hal Herzog has been studying human-animal interactions for over three decades and keeps more than 70 mice in his basement laboratory, despite admitting he doesn't particularly like rodents. 🔹 The book reveals that 60% of Americans who give up meat for moral reasons return to eating it within a year, with bacon being the most common "gateway meat" that leads to their dietary change. 🔹 During his research, Herzog discovered that cockfighting enthusiasts often show more concern for their birds' welfare than many ordinary pet owners do for their animals. 🔹 Women are five times more likely than men to be vegetarians for moral reasons, and significantly more likely to be involved in animal rights activism. 🔹 The title was inspired by the stark contradictions in how humans categorize animals: Americans spend $48 billion annually on pets while sending 2 billion chickens to slaughter each year.