In Jonathan Safran Foer's "Eating Animals," he explores the cultural significance of dietary choices, particularly regarding the consumption of certain animals. He highlights the societal taboos that exist against eating dogs, suggesting that these norms reflect not only our feelings toward these animals but also deeper aspects of our identity and values. Each culture has its own preferences and roles for animals, which shapes their eating practices.

Foer contrasts different cultures, noting how the French deeply cherish their dogs while being less averse to consuming horses. Conversely, Spaniards may revere horses but still partake in eating cows, while in India, the sacredness of cows allows for the consumption of dogs. This complex interplay of reverence and dietary habits underscores how cultural attitudes influence which animals are seen as companions and which are viewed as food.