The first precept in Buddhism is ‘Do not kill.’ This precept is not merely a legalistic prohibition, but a realization of our affinity with all who share the gift of life. A compassionate heart provides a firm ground for this precept.
Chatsumarn Kabilsingh, Buddhist monk, ex professor, religion and philosophy, Thannasat University, Thailand
As the crisis of feeding the world’s population grows, breeding of animals for human consumption becomes less acceptable — out of compassion for the suffering of animals and the awareness that it is a grossly inefficient use of water and grain. A new relationship with the animal kingdom is part of our changing perception of the Earth. Animals are part of us, and part of our practice.
Allan Hunt Badiner, editor, Dharma Gaia
Philosophy … means looking at things which one takes for granted and suddenly seeing that they are very odd indeed.
Iris Murdoch, British writer
At a dinner party one should eat wisely but not too well, and talk well, but not too wisely.
W. Somerset Maugham, British writer
Propaganda … is a seeding of the self in the consciousness of others.
Elizabeth Drew, American writer
To believe is very dull. To doubt is intensely engrossing.
Oscar Wilde, 1854-1900, Anglo-Irish genius
