I see life as a phenomenon to be treasured, revered, & respected. I do not see non-human animals as either “The Enemy” to be subdued, or as the materials for food, fabric or fun, who were put on earth for human use. I see myself as a part of the natural world rather than as its master or owner. I recognize no expendable or superfluous species that humans are free to hurt or destroy. Species of life forms need not justify their existence, nor plead for protection from extinction on the grounds of their potential usefulness as food or medicine for humans.

We continue to be burdened & misguided by adages such as “A weed is a plant we have not yet found a use for.” I recognize the intrinsic legitimacy of all life. I reject any hierarchy of acceptable suffering among sentient beings. It is no more acceptable to torment or kill sentient beings with “primitive” nervous systems than those with highly developed nervous systems. The value of life to its possessor is the same, whether it be a clam, a crayfish, a carp, a cow, a chicken or a human child.

I understand that gentleness cannot be a product of violence & peace cannot be a product of contention & conflict. My ideals, embodied in Veganism, encompass much more than advocacy of a diet free of non-human animal products or of a fervent defense of non-human animal rights. I exclude no sentient being—human or non-human, from my commitment to compassionate, gentle, benevolence.

Every time we bend down to pick something up, it is connected to something else. There is an equivalent ecology to our behavior. Everything we do connects to something else; every action touches on the world around us, either close at hand & noticeable or far away & unperceived—immediate in effect or distant in time.

If these principles & Veganism have a prime value, it is that life-respecting compassion overrides individual issues of custom, convenience, comfort or cuisine. The commitment to these values will bring us closer to a world in which the fate & fortune of the planet & all of its life forms do not hang on the judgment or the generosity of one species.

If there is one single concept that both generates & sustains the meaning & power of this worldview, it is found in the word “mindfulness.” As Vegans, we strive to be thoughtful, aware & concerned about the impact of our thoughts, words, choices , decisions, & actions. The fruit of this awareness in inner peace, the quiet strength of ethical confidence, & an uplifting sense of fulfillment.

This worldview, this way of life—Veganism is the practice of non-violence.

~ Derived & adapted from “The Philosophy of Vegan Values,” by Dr. S.M. Sapon