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Do you have questions about being vegan? Send them
to Jo using this easy form.
She would be happy to address your individual concerns
as well as general inquiries about vegan ethics, philosophy,
practical applications, and living compassionately.
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answer questions that have already been addressed in
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Jo will make every attempt to answer each question
personally, however, due to her schedule, this may not
be possible. If a reply is forthcoming, it could take
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Veganism
and Abortion
What
is the official vegan stance on abortion?
No moral dilemma exists that is quite
like the issue of abortion. A fetus grows within and
is dependent on the pregnant woman carrying it, so the
situation is distinctly different from that of animals
or humans already born and conspicuously alive. Simple
observation readily confirms the obvious with regard
to the suffering of people and animals. The question
of when life begins, however, is an enigmatic matter
that has sparked passionate political, legal, and ecclesiastical
debate.
Vegans are all across the board in their view of abortion.
Although many vegans feel that abortion is a relevant
vegan issue, there is no consensus of opinion. Even vegans
who have parallel points of view on most matters often
come to very different conclusions on this one. This is
because determining when life begins is a complex and
subjective affair, one which frequently involves spiritual
or religious considerations as well. Consequently, this
issue is just as contentious and no easier to resolve
within the bounds of veganism than it is in the general
public.
Veganism is not a theology. Hence vegans
come from a diverse range of backgrounds and outlooks.
Because vegans do not share a uniform position on abortion,
there is no "official stance." This matter is best resolved
by individual practitioners in the context of their
personal perspectives or spiritual beliefs.
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