I agree, mostly, with what Mato Kinze has to say in regards to meat eating.
I myself am a vegan and have been for over 6 years now. I don't like to think of my actions or reasons behind my decisions as being righteous, although I do know some vegans who feel that they are better than non-vegans for certain reasons.
I do not believe that eating animals in and of itself is wrong, but it does seem unnecessary to me. And if an animal suffers unnecessarily, that is to say we can easily live off of plants and seeds, then why kill the animal for food if it is not necessary?
One philosophy of mine, in regard to meat-eating - if you eat meat and you would be fine with the idea of killing/slaughtering an animal so that you can eat - then that is fine - Your actions align with your views and beliefs. But what I don't understand, as an example, is when someone who eats meat can't stand the idea of eating meat that is still attached to the bone, because it reminds them that the meat came from a living animal. If someone is bothered by that, then in my humble opinion they really should not be eating meat, as they seem to be uncomfortable with the whole idea behind it and their actions do not align with their beliefs.
I know for me, personally, I could simply not see myself killing an animal for food. I just can't. If I was starving and I would die otherwise, maybe I might change my mind, but even trying to imagine that scenario I simply can't imagine myself being able to do it and maybe I would starve, or I'd be bawling while doing it. I'm not trying to say I'm better than anyone else, I'm just saying that's the way I am. And since that's the way I am, I choose to be vegan, because this allows my actions concerned with food choices to be aligned with my beliefs and views on suffering and animals, etc.
I just wanted to put in my two cents. I hope that's ok?
Much love,
Rachelle