Factory farming is a common yet controversial practice that allows for the large-scale production of meat products. However, the system often involves the inhumane raising and handling of animals.

This excerpt has been edited for length. Transfarmation: The Movement to Free Us From Factory Farming, is available for purchase now. In the spring of 2014, I found myself sitting across from a man ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Christine Ro is a journalist covering science and development. Six families used to live on the same square mile as Barb Kalbach, ...