What is a ‘Soy Boy’? Here’s What The Insult Means

The term "soy boy" originated in far-right internet circles in 2017 and is used as an insult against men perceived to be too feminine due to their liberal beliefs, such as veganism. This term is often associated with misogyny and speciesism, implying that men who do not fit traditional gender norms are weak and submissive. The myth that consuming soy leads to increased estrogen production in men and more feminine characteristics has been debunked, but the insult still persists among certain online groups.

The association of veganism with femininity and the belief that "real men eat meat" further perpetuate the soy boy insult. Some vegans have embraced the term by proudly proclaiming themselves as soy boys, while others seek to challenge stereotypes through social media. Insults like soy boy can deter men from embracing veganism due to concerns about preserving their masculinity, highlighting the psychological barriers that exist in adopting plant-based diets. Additionally, the insult not only targets men but also denigrates women as inferior and perpetuates the belief that animals are meant to be consumed as food within the context of speciesism.