Essay #3 - Vegetarianism
Hindu and Jain philosophy advocates the view that it is morally reprehensible for human beings to harm living creatures, let alone eat them. However, for many human beings around the world, animal products are an important part of a normal diet.
1. Print and Read "The Moral Status of Animals Reflected in Jain and Hindu Traditions" by Bharat Ranganthan. (available on Bb)
https://case.edu/discussions/archive/2006-1-fall.pdf (pg. 15)
2. Write an essay about the morality of eating meat or animal products.
• Take the position that either a) it is wrong or b) that it is not wrong to eat animals/use animal products. Argue for your position using as much evidence as possible. How would you respond to those who take the opposite position?
• Is it morally reprehensible to consume animal products? That is, could it be wrong to eat meat? Are there any exceptions?
• What are the Hindu/Jaina explanations for the immorality of meat consumption?
Do you agree or disagree with these views? Why?
• What are specific instances where eating meat would definitely be wrong?
• What are specific instances where eating meat would clearly not be wrong?
• To what extent should humans have a higher moral status than animals? Why?
• Be sure to use quotes from the text to illustrate the points you want to make.
• Remember: Just because something benefits you, that does not make it right!!!
• Include ethical language/concepts: karma, duty, egoism, utilitarianism, honesty, justice, autonomy, non-maleficence, intuition/conscience, balance, order, harmony,