Quote:
Originally Posted by tore
I think Vegangelica's point about the want or even desire for morale as something which is rooted in feelings is a good point which supports why a morale theory shouldn't conflict with your feelings.
Take the above example again; a hare gets shot or is tortured. Assuming the suffering of the hare is the same and it's an isolated incidence, although it could be argued, I think your point makes sense as a utilitarian argument. However, if you question your feelings, again, I think you will be more morally disgusted by the sadist than the hunter. Such feelings are not necessarily irrational and come from nowhere. They generally work in the interest of your well being. The dislike towards the sadist is trying to tell you something, for example that this is a bad person and might be dangerous. As I mentioned earlier, reveling in torture isn't exactly the sign of a healthy mind and a winning personality.
Generally speaking, feelings are a product of natural and sexual selection. In other words, they are not random but are the way they are because they have benefitted our fitness during our evolutionary history. They work in our interest.
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Yes...I'm afraid of hunters to an extent, but even more afraid of people who torture animals...and I think those fears help keep me safe. I'm afraid of trappers, since this *is* generally torturing animals...letting them linger for hours with broken limbs and lacerated bodies before finally coming back to kill them. I hate weapons and fighting. Again, that fear helps keep me safe.
And I fear meat-eaters in general to an extent. I don't see myself as much different from "meat animals." Especially when I was child, I could see the direct threat to me from humans eating animals so similar to me: small and helpless, defenseless. The world was/is a dangerous place. Fear of others can be a very healthy, survivalist feeling.
I suppose the basic fear with meat-eaters is this: if they are so willing to eat someone just because that someone is a little different...less intelligent, weaker...what would protect *me* from being seen as the prey if I, due to circumstances out of my control, lost some intelligence and strength? I know a vegan will not exploit me in that situation. But someone who feels exploitation of sentient beings is justifiable, even desirable?
I don't fear *you*, though, Tore. You are civilized and thoughtful. There are some people, though...predatory people...I wouldn't want to be with in the same room when they are hungry. Or if they had a weapon.
Actually, one of the things I enjoy about being vegan is that *usually*...and I'm stereotyping here...when I meet a vegan I feel safe with that person. I know right away their life philosophy is to not do harm to others...humans, animals, etc. There is often a bond I feel with vegetarians (who are vegetarian for ethical reasons), even if I don't know them well.