It’s much more compelling by comparison, especially when backed up with the fact that the person at issue actually does care about all other beings, including animals (even if s/he doesn’t believe veganism is the most effective possible way of reducing suffering).
Right, which is why I said “one could follow this strategy and yet not actually claim to be vegetarian”.
Yes, you probably shouldn’t say that. But
‘I don’t eat meat so I can have conversations about animal welfare’
is also not that compelling!
It’s much more compelling by comparison, especially when backed up with the fact that the person at issue actually does care about all other beings, including animals (even if s/he doesn’t believe veganism is the most effective possible way of reducing suffering).