267: Vegan Ethics Goes Beyond What You Eat with Lisa Kemmerer

In this episode of the Vegan Visibility Podcast, Dr. Lisa Kemmerer, an animal activist, philosopher, and author, engages in a thought-provoking conversation about her book "Amore and Vegan Ethics." As a retired philosophy professor, Lisa shares insights into her acronym "AMORE," which encapsulates the core moral reasons for adopting a plant-based lifestyle. She starts with "A" for animal suffering, delving into the ethical considerations surrounding the treatment of animals in various industries, with a focus on dairy farming. Moving on to "M" for medical, Lisa explores the health benefits of a plant-based diet, emphasizing its positive impact on preventing diseases like cancer and heart-related issues. The discussion then turns to "O" for oppression, where Lisa highlights the interconnectedness of social justice issues with veganism, addressing aspects such as world hunger, workforce conditions in animal agriculture, and the environmental impact. The "R" in AMORE takes us into the realm of religion, where Lisa unpacks how different religious traditions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Eastern religions, align with or challenge the principles of veganism. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the religious perspectives of individuals to foster meaningful conversations. Finally, Lisa covers "E" for the environment, breaking down the environmental consequences of animal agriculture, including soil degradation, deforestation, climate change, water pollution, and fresh water reduction. Throughout the conversation, Lisa provides valuable insights for activists, encouraging a thoughtful and considerate approach to advocacy. She shares personal experiences, recommends strategic conversations based on individual beliefs, and stresses the significance of education in creating awareness about the moral reasons behind adopting a plant-based lifestyle.