Philosophy: a theory or attitude that acts as a guiding principle for behaviour.
Synonyms: beliefs, credo, faith, convictions, ideology, ideas, thinking, notions, theories, doctrine, tenets, values, principles, ethics, attitude, line, view, viewpoint, outlook, world view, school of thought. (source)
Veganism is a philosophy and practice, and the practice follows from the philosophy. But how much of our practice ought to be taken up by considering the vegan philosophy? It is a regular point of contention that we shouldn’t spend our time pontificating on the internet or in cafes about aspects of veganism, but this overlooks the actual nature of veganism itself. There is that necessary component of thinking that allows us to better understand the principles of veganism and how that can be transformative in itself.
So it is important to regard discussions as an integral part of veganism / animal rights, in order to better understand the philosophy and also to consider its broader implications in society. Whilst some people in the movement can be reluctant to engage with ideas, that should not discourage anyone from becoming involved in discussing those ideas. Understanding ideas means we can communicate with greater efficacy, it can become easier to answer questions from people interested in veganism, and we can develop those broader justice implications from within the vegan philosophy.
So let’s encourage and be encouraged by constructive dialogue, and explore those issues with which we are concerned. We can combine this thinking with taking action to change the society we live in to more closely reflect those vegan values.