Skip to main content

ASK The Village Vegan | ''What is the exact definition of veganism?''



QUESTION: What is the exact definition of veganism?

This isn't the first question people usually ask when I tell someone that I am a vegan, but it should be. They usually ask, ''Are you healthy'' or ''Where do you get your protein?'' That sometimes gets us off on the wrong foot. It's much better if we can define something first, then it's much easier to discuss it, and explain it.

Let's start with the standard definition. Veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products, particularly in diet, and with it, an associated philosophy that rejects the commodity status of animals. An individual who follows the diet or philosophy is known as a vegan.

Sometimes, a vegan may further explain that they are an 'ethical vegan', also known as a "moral vegetarian". This is someone who not only follows a vegan diet, but extends their philosophy to other areas of their life, and opposes the use of animals for any purpose. Increasingly, however, it is becoming understood that being a vegan means that we eschew all forms of animal use and abuse, making veganism an ideology or belief system. (See Beyond Carnism

The standard encyclopedic definition can be a bit boring and even confusing so I will answer this way: 

There can, and are many different ways to live a vegan life. But, the one thing ALL vegans have in common is a plant-based diet that avoids ALL animal foods like meat fish, shellfish and insects. We also exclude dairy, eggs and honey. AND (this can be overlooked especially in some plant-based circles) we reject animal-derived materials, products tested on animals and places that use animals for entertainment.

In short, a vegan is one who strictly adheres to the Golden Rule, applying that tenet to all living creatures -- our neighbors

Michael Corthell, The Village Vegan

Do you have a question?

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

What is the Vegan Project - Global?

The Vegan Project Global is a movement aimed at promoting Veganism, a lifestyle that is free from animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and other animal-derived ingredients. The project aims to raise awareness of the ethical, environmental, and health benefits of a vegan lifestyle and to provide resources and support for those interested in making the transition to veganism.  The Vegan Project encourages people to adopt a vegan lifestyle by providing information on the impact of animal agriculture on the environment, the ethical concerns surrounding the use of animals for food, and the health benefits of a plant-based diet. The project also provides guidance on vegan nutrition, recipes, and resources for finding vegan-friendly products.  The Vegan Project seeks to create a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to promoting a vegan lifestyle and who support each other in their efforts to live compassionate and sustainable life.  What is Veganism? Veganism is a

How to Go Vegan Step-by-Step

"The journey to veganism begins with a single step towards compassion." The Vegan Project Global Forward We're inviting you to go vegan for the sake of not only the billions of animals that are slaughtered each year to feed humanity but also for the sake of our planet and for your own health. Michael Greger, M.D. states emphatically, ''The most ethical diet just so happens to be the most environmentally sound diet and just so happens to be the healthiest.'' I encourage you to visit his non-profit's page, NutritionFacts.org . It is jam-packed with information on the planet-based diet that all vegans follow. And he backs up everything with peer-reviewed scientific studies. An Oxford University study as well as other scientific studies show that becoming a vegan is the single most important action an individual can take to help mitigate the climate crisis we are now facing. So, why does it matter if human beings use their fellow Earthlings as resources a

How Trolls' Negative Comments Help to Promote Veganism

 by Michael Corthell , founder of The Vegan Project While internet trolls' negative comments about veganism may seem counterproductive to promoting the vegan lifestyle, there are ways that these comments actually help promote veganism. Among them are: Drawing Attention : Negative comments about veganism can draw attention to the topic and generate more discussion about the issue. This can be an opportunity for vegans to provide accurate information about the lifestyle and correct misconceptions. Strengthening Conviction : For some individuals, negative comments can strengthen their conviction to follow a vegan lifestyle. They may see the negative comments as a reflection of the animal exploitation they are trying to fight against, which reinforces their beliefs and commitment to the cause. Engaging in Debate : Some individuals may engage in debates with internet trolls and use the opportunity to share information and evidence to support their arguments. This can help to educate