Addiction Quote by Norm Phelps
“When we hunt or fish, we deliberately kill a defenseless being who wishes us no harm. This is a direct violation of the First Precept. It is absolutely forbidden to Buddhists. As to eating meat, we know that the only way we can obtain it is for an animal to be killed. Therefore, when we eat meat, it is our intent that an innocent animal should die to satisfy our addiction to flesh. And that underlying intention, no matter how well hidden behind a smokescreen of rationalizations will block the growth of compassion and create negative karma.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Buddhist Ethics, 2015, The First Precept and Vegetarianism
He argues that killing animals for food violates Buddhism’s first precept, linking meat consumption to intentional harm and negative karma.
In simple terms: Eating meat means intending to kill innocent animals, which conflicts with Buddhist ethics.
Key Takeaway
Consider reducing or eliminating meat to align with compassion.
Themes
compassion
ethics
diet
karma
Mood
critical
contemplative
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- vegetarianism
- mindful eating
- ethical diet planning
Key Concepts
non‑violence
intentionality
spiritual growth
Questions to Reflect On
- Can one consume meat without intending harm?
- How does cultural context affect this view?
A Different Perspective
The argument assumes all meat consumption is intentional killing, ignoring indirect supply chains.
![“If we are not able to bring the churches, the synagogues, [and] the mosques around to the animal rights view, we will never make large-scale progress for animal rights in the United States.” quote by Norm Phelps](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f0c/norm-phelps-44318_able_if-we-are-not-able-to-bring-the-churches_2656779.jpg)
