Animal - rights Quote by Steven Wise
““Some animal rights activists are demanding vegetarianism, even veganism now, or nothing. But since only 4 or 5 percent of Americans claim to be vegetarians, 'nothing' is the far more likely outcome. I ask these activists to weigh the horrors of Bladen County's industrial farms and the Tar Heel slaughterhouse against the consequences of doing nothing to alleviate the hour-to-hour sufferings of its victims. Is not a life lived off the factory farm and a death humanely inflicted superior to the terrible lives we know they lead and the horrible deaths we know they suffer in Bladen County today?””
About This Quote
The argument suggests that demanding strict diets is unrealistic; doing nothing may be a more likely outcome, but moral responsibility to reduce suffering remains.
In simple terms: Activists' demands are unrealistic; inaction is likely but still problematic.
Consider practical ways to reduce suffering without extreme demands.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy advocacy
- consumer choices
- educational campaigns
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What realistic steps can individuals take?
- How can activism balance idealism and pragmatism?
Extreme demands may alienate potential supporters.