Executive summary: The definition of veganism is ambiguous and arbitrary, and a more nuanced view is needed that recognizes the continuum of harm reduction and the varying levels of effort required by individuals in different circumstances.
Key points:
The Vegan Society’s definition of veganism as avoiding animal exploitation “as far as is possible and practicable” is vague and open to interpretation.
The conventional definition used by most vegans, which requires 100% avoidance of animal products, is philosophically questionable and arbitrary.
A consequentialist definition that considers all downstream effects of actions is impractical and problematic.
Harm reduction lies on a continuum, and the effort required to reduce harm varies for individuals based on their circumstances.
Insisting on rigid definitions of veganism is unhelpful, and a range of “almost vegan” lifestyles should be recognized and encouraged.
This comment was auto-generated by the EA Forum Team. Feel free to point out issues with this summary by replying to the comment, and contact us if you have feedback.
Executive summary: The definition of veganism is ambiguous and arbitrary, and a more nuanced view is needed that recognizes the continuum of harm reduction and the varying levels of effort required by individuals in different circumstances.
Key points:
The Vegan Society’s definition of veganism as avoiding animal exploitation “as far as is possible and practicable” is vague and open to interpretation.
The conventional definition used by most vegans, which requires 100% avoidance of animal products, is philosophically questionable and arbitrary.
A consequentialist definition that considers all downstream effects of actions is impractical and problematic.
Harm reduction lies on a continuum, and the effort required to reduce harm varies for individuals based on their circumstances.
Insisting on rigid definitions of veganism is unhelpful, and a range of “almost vegan” lifestyles should be recognized and encouraged.
This comment was auto-generated by the EA Forum Team. Feel free to point out issues with this summary by replying to the comment, and contact us if you have feedback.