Animal Rights

The issue of the rights of animals has become a painful thorn in my side lately. I believe that everyone has a right to life, and that society should strive toward the goal of everyone living decently. Of course, that statement is intended for humans only, but it begs the question, "why not animals too?"

As a general rule, I apply the "live at let live" concept to animals as well. I will actually go out of my way to avoid stepping on bugs on the sidewalk, and do my best to co-exist with other sentient beings. The one exception to the rule is anything that you are bound to find when you pull up a rock - cockroaches, earwigs, etc. Of course, I don't go around turning up rocks either.

Of course, the heart of the matter still has not been reached. I love red meat - I absolutely love it. There is nothing in the world like a steak done right. Yet I am acutely aware of the tremendous slaughter and suffering that is required in order for me to enjoy this food. The best argument in favor of meat-eating (aside from the nefarious bullshit about "animals are meant to be eaten") is that it is a quality of life issue - one can spend there days munching on leaves and twigs, or they can enjoy a delicious slab of meat. Sadly, this argument also leads to the conclusion that slavery is acceptable, since having slaves would improve the quality of life of the master.

Therefore, I have led myself into a dead-end. The only reason for eating meat is a hedonistic pleasure that comes at the expense of others, albeit non-human others. However, I just love the stuff!

So, in conclusion, I amn't going to stop eating meat - I just wish I would.