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What we eat might be eating us out || Acharya Prashant, in conversation #Veganism
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4 years ago
Ahimsa (Non-violence)
Spirituality
Veganism
Climate Change
Animal Agriculture
Vedas and Upanishads
Gautam Buddha
Mahavir
Description

Acharya Prashant explains the connection between veganism, spirituality, and science. He begins with the spiritual aspect, stating that non-violence (Ahimsa) is at the very core of spirituality. This principle is rooted in the Sanatana tradition and its most ancient scriptures, the Vedas and Upanishads. He notes that figures like Gautam Buddha and Mahavir gave a very high place to non-violence. Spirituality, he argues, cannot exist without non-violence because the fundamental division created by the ego is the root of all violence. Therefore, a person who calls themselves spiritual cannot be involved in any form of violence, whether gross or subtle, against humans, animals, or even nature. He attributes India's historical respect for animals, trees, rivers, and mountains to its deep spiritual foundation, which has resulted in less cruelty compared to the rest of the world. From a scientific perspective, Acharya Prashant presents two main points: the effect of food on one's body and its impact on the environment. He explains that meat consumption is the root cause of many diseases, and quitting meat and dairy is often the cure. He mentions the prevalence of lactose intolerance and the link between red meat and cancer. He then discusses the broader environmental impact, stating that the biggest problem facing humanity is climate change. The primary cause of climate change is the emission of greenhouse gases, which is directly linked to animal agriculture. He explains that the food we eat is the number one cause of climate change, as animal agriculture requires massive deforestation for grazing and fodder cultivation, and the animals themselves release significant amounts of methane and carbon dioxide. Addressing the high consumption of dairy in India, even in religious rituals, Acharya Prashant explains that the same spiritual foundation that made India largely vegetarian should, when deepened, lead to the abandonment of dairy. He observes that the current veganism movement in India is often perceived as a foreign, elitist concept, which hinders its acceptance. For the movement to succeed, it must be connected to India's indigenous culture and spiritual roots. He suggests that the concept of 'Kaladharma' (the appropriate action for a particular time) is crucial. While offering milk from a lovingly kept family cow might have been acceptable in the past, the current industrial dairy system, with its immense cruelty and environmental damage, makes it untenable today. He concludes that if people are educated about the cruelty in the dairy industry and its connection to the beef industry, they will voluntarily stop consuming dairy, guided by the same principle of non-violence that is inherent in their culture.