In "Eating Animals," Jonathan Safran Foer explores the concept of cruelty, defining it as not just the intentional infliction of pain but also the apathy towards the suffering of others. This perspective highlights a deeper moral obligation to acknowledge and respond to the harm occurring in environments where animals are often exploited.

Foer's work invites readers to reflect on their role in the food system and confront the ethical implications of their dietary choices. By emphasizing the significance of both direct and indirect cruelty, the author challenges society to reconsider its indifference towards the welfare of animals and the broader consequences of consumption.