Study Debunks ‘Vegan Hippie’ Stereotype: Plant-Based Dieters More Power-Hungry Than Meat-Eaters

Study Challenges Stereotypes: Vegetarians Crave Power More Than Meat-Eaters

[Image: Stock photo of a diverse group of people sharing a meal, with vegetarians portrayed assertively.]

The stereotype of vegetarians and vegans as gentle, peace-loving hippies is far from accurate, according to new research. A study led by Dr. John Nezlek of SWPS University in Warsaw reveals that vegetarians exhibit a stronger desire for power and personal success compared to their meat-eating peers. Meanwhile, omnivores tend to prioritize kindness, conformity, and social harmony.

The Misunderstood Vegetarian
Dr. Nezlek surveyed 3,792 vegetarians (including vegans) and non-vegetarians in the U.S. and Poland. Unlike previous research on personality traits, this study focused on core values. Participants rated how closely they identified with statements describing values like ambition, creativity, and conformity. The results upended expectations: vegetarians scored higher in traits linked to power—defined as control over people and resources—as well as stimulation (seeking novelty) and achievement.

[Image: Zendaya at an event with a caption highlighting her vegetarianism and the study’s findings on values.]

Meat-Eaters: The Unexpected Conformists
Omnivores showed stronger alignment with benevolence, tradition, and safety. While vegetarians still value compassion, they prioritize it less than meat-eaters. These differences, though modest individually, become significant at a population level. “If you interact with vegetarians repeatedly, you’ll notice they aren’t the type to back down easily,” Dr. Nezlek noted.

Why the Disconnect?
The misconception might stem from vegetarians being predominantly female, a group often stereotyped as nurturing. However, the study suggests vegetarians embrace traditionally masculine values like assertiveness. Dr. Nezlek theorizes that adopting a vegetarian lifestyle—a choice often met with social resistance—requires non-conformity and resilience. Historically a “berated minority,” vegetarians may develop psychological toughness to uphold their choices.

[Image: Jeremy Corbyn with a plant-based meal, underscoring the link between vegetarianism and non-conformist values.]

Chicken or the Egg?
Unanswered is whether these traits lead people to vegetarianism or develop as a result of it. Dr. Nezlek suggests future research tracking values over time could clarify causation.

Key Takeaways

• Vegetarians prioritize power, stimulation, and achievement.
• Meat-eaters lean toward conformity, security, and social harmony.
• Cultural stereotypes overlook the resolve required to maintain a minority dietary choice.

The study, published in PLOS One, challenges assumptions, proving that vegetarianism is less about passivity and more about standing firm in one’s values—whatever they may be.

[Image: Stock photo of a meat-based family BBQ, emphasizing meat-eaters’ communal traditions.]

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