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Animal Quote by Leonardo da Vinci

“King of the animals-- as thou hast described him-- I should rather say king of the beasts, thou being the greatest--because thou doest only help them, in order that they give thee their children for the benefit of the gullet, of which thou hast attempted to make a sepulchre for all animals; and I…” quote by Leonardo da Vinci
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“King of the animals-- as thou hast described him-- I should rather say king of the beasts, thou being the greatest--because thou doest only help them, in order that they give thee their children for the benefit of the gullet, of which thou hast attempted to make a sepulchre for all animals; and I would say still more, if I were allowed to speak the entire truth...now does not nature produce enough simple (vegetarian) food for thee to satisfy thyself?”

Leonardo da Vinci

About This Quote

Source Letter: Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci, circa 1500

Da Vinci critiques humanity’s exploitation of animals for food, urging a vegetarian diet as more natural and humane.

In simple terms: Humans overuse animals for meat; consider plant‑based eating.

Key Takeaway

Choose plant‑based meals.

Themes

ethics environment diet humanity animals

Mood

thoughtful concerned

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • menu planning
  • ethical dining

Key Concepts

sustainability compassion nutrition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would change in your diet if you prioritized animal welfare?
  • How can societies support sustainable plant‑based food systems?
A Different Perspective

Vegetarianism may be culturally challenging or nutritionally insufficient for some.

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