Kathy Rudy

M. Kathy Rudy is an American women's studies scholar. A professor at Duke University, Rudy's work is often interdisciplinary as she merges philosophy, theology, politics, feminism, and medical ethics. She is open about her homosexuality[1] and is a radical social constructionist.

Rudy penned a controversial opinion piece that alleged that white culture hypocrisy was responsible for the prosecution of the admitted animal abuser Michael Vick.[2]

Another somewhat controversial piece offered by Kathy Rudy comes from her newest book, Loving Animals: A New Approach to Animal Advocacy (2011). In this book, Kathy argues against veganism, claiming that humans and animals have spent 10,000 years forming a particular relationship [one that results in humans eating animals], and that particular relationship is good for both sides. The animals are given days in the sun, grass to eat, fields to graze, and the humans - in return - are able to eat them. In her interview with Vegan.com, Kathy explains that she attempted veganism for about one year, any due to her lack of preparation and guidance, she was left in worse health than when she started. She admits, "I ate like an idiot, and I’m blaming veganism for my health problems instead of the crappy food I shoveled into my mouth. I am an academic who couldn’t be bothered to read a book covering vegan nutrition before embarking on a major change of diet."[3]

Kathy is well known at Duke University, where she teaches a variety of topics including: Feminist Ethics, Reproductive Ethics, Gender and Popular Culture, and Debates in Women's Studies. Through her progressive work, Kathy was awarded the David Paletz Course Enhancement Award in 2012.[4]