My purpose in leaving a reply to your biodiesel post was not intended as a veiled entry into a discussion/argument on the merits, or lack thereof, in meat production. Rather, it was intended to express the belief that those possessing opposing opinions can often find the common ground on which to base cooperation to the mutual benefit of all. I was noting our commonly held beliefs.

I sense by the tone of your reply that you consider your position regarding veganism and meat production / consumption to be singularly valid, transcending barbarism, while assuming I hold my position simply because I lack the correct information, experience or education. Rather than focus on the point on which we agree you’ve focused, instead, on the point of disagreement; I find that to be quite interesting.

Thanks

I’m not sure, however, how it applies to the issues of factory farming/pollution/cruelty? Are you aware of the methods used in the conventional meat-producing industry If so, could you enlighten me as to what part of it is NOT cruel or toxic to the animals and the environment?

If I’ve been misinformed, I would certainly appreciate knowing that we are actually being responsible to all living beings rather than exploiting them and the environment for our own use.

There is endless information, including footage and photographs of the conditions of feedlots and slaughter facilities. Please refer to this article is yesterday’s (Jan. 27, 2008) NY Times, Rethinking The Meat-Guzzler, for the most recent journalistic reporting on this issue.

Thank you for your input. Tao

Personally, I’d rather focus on those points that we have in common rather than those in which we differ. It’s unlikely that I’ll be untrue to my core values, and I’d hope you’d be true to yours, as well; that doesn’t, however, preclude cooperation, on a human level, to solve mutual problems.