PETA's at it Again: Sexiest Vegetarian Next Door 2010

Image credit: PETA

Much like Blythe's excellent slideshow on PETA porn, I'm never quite sure what to make of PETA. On the one hand, the constant focus on using sex to sell activism gets a little tiresome. On the other hand, it kind of works. Ignoring their rather painful appearance on Glenn Back's show to mock Al Gore, PETA do, in general, win a great deal of attention for the important twin causes of animal rights and the sustainability of a more plant-based diet. Judging by the repeated discussions in our forums about whether PETA is unethical, and the pros and cons of PETA, I am not alone in my confusion. Their latest competition—a quest to find "the sexiest vegetarian next door"—is treading on some familiar ground. Like the aforementioned Pamela Anderson ad and the supposedly banned Superbowl sex ad, PETA is using sex to sell vegetarianism. But lest the organization be accused of exploiting women, the Sexiest Vegetarian Next Door 2010 competition is open to people of both genders. And really, I guess I can't complain about PETA's obsessions too much. After all, I'm writing about them. And I'm writing on a site that created an infamous guide on how to green your sex life. PETA aren't the only ones who realize that sex sells.

The competition is open to any adult who is a) vegetarian or vegan, and b) not a celebrity. Winners will receive two trips for two to Hawaii, including round-trip airfare and accommodation for seven nights. No word on what happens if the winner arrives in Hawaii and promptly orders a steak. But I'll bet PETA would not be amused.