Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Should you go vegan?
Position1 of 2›

Eating animal products is ethical

This position holds that eating animal products is ethical. Its arguments draw on religious traditions in which animals serve humans, on the claim that people are natural omnivores who need meat, on meat's place in culture and ritual, and on humanity's role in the food chain.

Supporting arguments · 5

  1. It is ethical to eat meat as secondary consumers
    It is only natural for us to eat meat, as we are 'secondary consumers'.
  2. We support the animal species by farming them
    The meat industry means that many species are guaranteed survival due to their value to us.
  3. Humans need meat in their diet
    As omnivores we biologically demand meat in order to fuel our bodies and gain a sufficient amount of protein
  4. Animals do not have souls
    According to many belief systems, humans are the only animals which have souls. Some believe that animals were put on earth by a creator to serve human beings, and therefore eating animal products is ethical.
  5. Meat has a place in Culture and Tradition
    Many traditional cuisines include meat as an integral element. Historically, meat has been an integral part of feasting in many cultures. Going vegan would remove mean from these cultural traditions, changing them forever. You can limit meat consumption but still keep a cultural and traditional space for it.