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Just chatted with someone I know. How can one say something like that? (for context, we were talking about veganism and they said: "pescetarian makes more sense.") (lemmy.ml)
submitted 4 weeks ago by to c/vegan@lemmy.world
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I mean, it's (EDIT: it's actually not possible) possible that they don't, but still, who gives you the right to decide whether an animal shall live or not? Also, the fishing industry is harming the planet and (many) fish contain toxic metals.

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[–] 9 points 4 weeks ago (4 children)

I have not watched Dominion, but I am curious as to how they arrived at the conclusion that fish do not feel pain.

  1. Ask them to clarify and give relevant sources for the claim.
  2. Ask them what extent they are willing to extend their argument. Clearly, they make a distinction between humans and animals. That's fine, but then, is it moral to kill and consume a sufficiently mentally impaired human?
  3. If we have reasons to believe that the being can feel pain, albeit with a lack of certainty, wouldn't it be morally superior stance to not kill and consume it?

Chances are, they are in cognitive dissonance, and they do not want to think/act about all this. So, despite knowing the philosophical arguments around it, they can rationalise by just saying "but it tastes good", and "lol, they are not human". I, personally, have found no way to talk to such people. So, if your friend is anything like that, good luck, fellow vegan!

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  • [–] 3 points 4 weeks ago (3 children)

    This is not a healthy way to talk to people or make friends.

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  • [–] 3 points 3 weeks ago (1 child)

    Lol! What do you mean? How else can one speak rationally to people?

    As I see it, I have not been rude or disrespectful in my comment. I merely want to understand their reasoning (or lack thereof) for eating meat. If their reasons are strong enough to overcome the opposition (i.e., vegans), I will start consuming meat as well.

    Also, appealing to emotion does not work on everyone (as OP showed in their case). In such cases, if the person you are talking to intends to engage in a healthy discussion, the best approach is to work out the argument logically. Look for any contradictions in their reasoning (or yours). While the person may still not follow your proposal, at the very least, they will realize that their stance contains logical contradictions (hence my point about cognitive dissonance).

    I'm not saying that OP should be unfriendly or lose their friend. Friends can have healthy debates, and OP is the best judge in their case.

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  • [–] 1 point 3 weeks ago

    From the pictures, it's seemed like a very casual chat. I'd be turned off if someone broached the subject with your 3 points. I've never asked my friends for sources when chatting with them. Granted, I only chat with people I know in real life, it just feels a bit hostile is all.

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