The Humanist Vegetarian Group aims to bring an understanding to both the humanist and vegetarian communities that the underlying principles and logic which are the moral corner stones for each are, in fact, a shared philosophy between the two groups.

Humanism is an approach to life based on humanity and reason; Humanists recognise that moral values are properly founded on human nature, reason and experience. Our decisions are based on the available evidence and our assessment of the outcomes of our actions, not on any dogma or sacred text.

Some humanists as well as religious adherents believe that Homo sapiens are such a special case in nature that they have unique rights over animals which they can exploit as they wish. The Humanist Vegetarian Group refutes this.

Vegetarianism in its ethical form is an approach to life based on compassion for all animals. The Humanist Vegetarian Group understands that humans are merely animals and that the capacities which evolution has bestowed upon us for survival give rise to compassion, fairness and morality, which we apply as well as we are able to all animals.

In addition to the ethical position the Group welcomes members who are motivated to promote Vegetarianism for a variety of reasons including environmental concerns, economics, dietary preferences, aesthetics and health. We use the term Vegetarian to include Vegan.

Some vegetarians give justification for vegetarianism by wrapping it in spiritual and superstitious beliefs. The Humanist Vegetarian Group rejects these beliefs and seeks to promote a rational case for Vegetarianism.

News

Jailed al-Qaeda man refuses vegetarian food

Jail authorities said Mirza refused to take vegetarian food served to him for two days after he was lodged in jail on Tuesday, saying he was a habitual meat eater.

Check out this story on www.dnaindia.com.

Quarter million animals sacrificed at Hindu festival

Hinduism is generally thought of as a vegetarian religion, one that respects animals because in the cycle of death and rebirth, we've all been animals at one point or another.

Check out this story on www.gadling.com.

Being a Vegan Makes it Awfully Hard to Practice Voodoo

Can you be voodoo practicing vegan? Klem Johansen investigates.

Check out this story on www.ridiculopathy.com.

This much I know

Interview with AC Grayling, philosopher & vegetarian.

Check out this story on www.guardian.co.uk.

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