Digest Number 1032

[Guest guest]

Hi:

 

My typical blanket statement is that " if it has a nervous system that

means it feels pain, just like I do, then I don't eat it. " A little

more clinical, I grant you!

 

But I'd like to make another point.

 

My philosophy has always been that any step someone takes to more

humane behavior is a good step that should be encouraged.

 

Do I think people who eat fish are vegetarians? No. But am I glad they

no longer eat other meats? Yes. I'm glad when my carnivorous friends

even think twice about veal or lamb or leather couches.

 

If you make people think they have to be perfect to be " in the club " ,

they will abandon the idea before they begin.

 

There are very practical reasons that it's frustrating when people

mis-use or misinterpret the term " vegetarian " (fish sauce in

" Vegetarian dishes " , for example.) But setting the record straight

should be done with a positive intent...encouragement and assistance.

 

It's the whole " catching flies with honey " thing, a decidedly

non-vegan adage I grant you.

 

Best,

 

Elisa

" Silicon Veggie "

1st Wednesday of every month in the Metro

 

>

> As for educating the public, I have a simple, yet evocative way of

> explaining veganism to those who ask:

>

> " If it had a mother or came from a mother, I don't eat it. "

>

> (Imagine the impact of that statement on Mothers' Day!)

>

> My cents,

> Matthew

>

>

[Guest guest]

> " if it has a nervous system that

> means it feels pain, just like I do, then I don't eat it. "

 

If anyone is interested, here is an article looking at various issue

regarding fish feeling pain:

 

http://www.veganoutreach.org/spam/fish.html

 

Jack Norris, Registered Dietitian

Vegan Outreach

http://www.veganoutreach.org/

 

PA Office:

POB 38492

Pittsburgh, PA 15238-8492

 

CA Office:

916-375-0014