Could all of the loungers PLEASE lay off the vegetarians, vegans and PETA?

[smbolisnch]

I really do not understand the desire to treat your fellow libs like shit, simply because they choose not to eat animals. I really don't get it.

What even happened to mutual respect? :shrug:

Flame me if you must, hell I expect that much, but can you just leave well enough alone and leave the MANY veggies at DU to be so in peace? It is seriously getting OLD. :eyes:

And yes, I am a proud card carrying member of PETA. Many DUers are. I am also an active, proud democrat. Lets remember that we are all fighting for the same things, whether or not we eat the same things.

Give it a god damned rest!

[ClassWarrior]

1. If true to form, this will be a clarion call for the children...

...in the Lounge to pile on even harder.

NGU.

[Spinzonner]

5. Yes, but let's do it in an orderly fashion

Where do we get in line ?

(I think EVERYONE is way too sensitive about their choices and needs a sense of humor - or to learn to ignore the contrarians.)

[smbolisnch]

7. Well when the lounge crew starts on minorities, we'll talk about

being too sensitive.

[flvegan]

10. So you won't be "sensitive" when someone calls you

a fascist, or compares you to a fundie for choices you make in your life?

Indeed.

[Spinzonner]

17. No, I won't

I first consider whether there might be some validity in someone else' point-of-view. Even if their conclusion is wrong or unacceptable to me, there might be something to their argument or observations.

And If I don't like it or ultimately disagree, I just let it roll off. Everyone's entitled to their opinion, even idiots, even idiots like me.

You know, sticks and stones ...

[smbolisnch]

18. Oh bullshit.

When it goes on every damn day, sometimes several times a day, you get tired of letting it "roll off".

[Spinzonner]

26. Actually, I would 'get tired' of getting all worked up over

the opinions of people who I don't know personally and have no direct, material affect on my life other than what a allow them to do.

It seems like a rather counterproductive use of emotional energy and time.

[smbolisnch]

28. Well, if you think it is no big deal

and that people like me are just being too sensitive, do me a favor...
Go into GD and post about radical feminists or the homosexual agenda. No harm done right? Afterall, it's just a joke. :eyes:

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

29. Counterproductive use of emotional energy?

Sounds like a polysyllabic way of telling others to just "get over it."

Frankly I don't think people should be making the enemy out of others for a choice to not eat animals or animal by products.

[Spinzonner]

33. So, you have a prejudice against

Polysyllabicists ?

Your opinion is duly noted and respected. Perhaps 'making the enemy' is overstated, perhaps not.

Are you certain that some vegetarians and PETA people are not themselves responsible for intolerance and being overly doctrinaire ?

[smbolisnch]

35. I think you are dodging the point.

[Spinzonner]

95. Which point ?

It seems to jump around a bit.

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

39. Some perhaps, but that is like saying that black people should be profiled

because some are in gangs.

Too often, the acts of a few cause whole groups to be wrongly stereotyped. I'd just think we could do better discussing the subject on a progressive board.

[flvegan]

21. Validity to a label? That's bullshit. Absolute bullshit.

Sticks and stones have been used, quite literally, for just such causes.

[Name removed]

15. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Spinzonner]

24. Why is your opinion on the logic or content of someone's posts

dependent on the prejudices you might apply to such superficial information ?

But, for the record, it's called Privacy. I'm here to get information, exchange opinions, and be entertained, and subject people to my twisted, sometimes perverse, sens of humor. Other's who have other goals are welcome to do so and I encourage them to provide whatever information they are comfortable with and feel are material and conducive to those goals.

[ClassWarrior]

34. Hatred. Wow, what a laugh riot.

NGU.

[Spinzonner]

41. Say what ?

[ClassWarrior]

That's what bigotry is, isn't it?

NGU.

[Spinzonner]

77. Just a suggestion ...

Try and read posts a bit more carefully and a bit less egocentrically.

Not everything everyone says is either directed only to your central point or to your narrow concerns, however important that they may be either generally or personally.

Nowhere did I say that hatred was a kind or source of humor. I merely stated that humor was one of the reasons I visited DU, not the only one or one specific to this thread.

So, I think your seeming assertion that I consider hatred to be a laugh riot is a bit misplaced and unfair. But, OTOH, I'm not offended.

[JimmyJazz]

30. are you implying that those in the lounge are childish and

incapable of maintaining any sense of decorum?


Hold on. I gotta pick a wedgie. :silly:

[ClassWarrior]

36. No. Just the ones whom the booties fit.

NGU.

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

2. I agree. What's the crime in not eating meat?

I choose to eat meat and don't really want to be made wrong for doing, so..which is why I completely support those that choose not to.

[GOPisEvil]

3. Who cares what you eat or don't eat?

You do what's right for you, and I'll do what's right for me.

[enigmatic]

8. Bingo

I don't care if anyone eats meat or not. And I don't do the pile-on when when it's directed at vegitatians or carnivores, either.

[friesianrider]

45. As a vegetarian, you're exactly right.

:shrug: You eat meat, I don't. I'm cool with thjat if you are, and I won't become obsessed with your food choices if you won't become obsessed with mine.

[jeff30997]

4. Mmmmm... pita !

[Texasgal]

6. I agree with you!

I cannot imagine why some folks get so peeved over PETA and veg's.

I am not a member of Peta, hell I am not even a vegetarian! I do, however respect your lifestyle and would never be crappy towards it.

It's useless banter and all it does is upset people, I agree with you, some folks just need to give it a rest!

[miss_kitty]

9. No meat in this:

:popcorn:
No butter either

[smbolisnch]

11. Hopefully, the popcorn won't be necessary.

[miss_kitty]

179. Looks like I didn't bring enough

:popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn:

[SouthernDem2004]

12. Alot of varied opinions on DU. Just ignore those that are intolerant.

The anonymity of the web allows people to behave poorly and to be uncivil when they would not in real life.

[smbolisnch]

14. So true.

Still, the intolerance on a progressive message board never ceases to amaze me.

[LeftyMom]

13. Thank you.

I suspect this will just encourage more hostility though. Schoolyard bullies are like that, and the lounge is crawling with 'em.

[smbolisnch]

16. Yes it certainly is.

No doubt they are foaming at the mouth over this thread. :eyes:
I just want those people to lay off!

[Shoeempress]

19. No animosity from me. Thanks for not eating animals,

although my cats did say you were crazy for not eating meat when I told them, but you can't reason with those furry little predators.

[smbolisnch]

20. Well, since cats are REAL carnivores, that is understandable!

Thanks for not jumping all over me, too. :pals:

[flvegan]

22. They were manipulating you!!!!

They're actually VERY thankful, as there's more meat for them!!

[Ekirh]

23. Agreed

I eat meat and you choose not to, fair is fair in my opinion. I'm not going to say too much other than that except, I have many friends who are vegetarians and I never once had them "press" their opinion of this subject matter on me, and I would never do the same to my friends. . . or to people on this web site we have the privledge to gather on. We are all going to have strong opinions on some things. . . and this is one of them. That is just fine. Sadly though such strong opinions turn into flame fests. . . and at times "ganging up ons". I hope I've never taken part in that and if I had I apologize for it. In any case. .. as a meat eater I agree with you . . . and glad to have you and other vegetarians/vegans as fellow democrats :).

[Spider Jerusalem]

25. No problem with vegans.

I haven't seen any animosity directed towards vegans here, anyway. Only the proselytising, crusading zealots among them (which the thread that doubtless inspired this specifically mentioned). I don't mind Christians, generally, either, till they start trying to save me from my sin and wickedness. THEN we have a problem.

As far as I can see, if you happen to be moderate in your views and as respectful of the choices of others as you would have them be of yours, then you've no reason to be offended.

[smbolisnch]

27. Well, I AM offended.

You seem to be annoyed at veggies who defend themselves in those threads. Why should we have to just sit back and watch it? That is my point - the threads in which we have to defend ourselves need to stop.

[Spider Jerusalem]

40. What annoys me is your apparent inability to make distinctions.

Note "proselytising". It's like arguing that there's no difference between dating an Episcopalian and a fundamentalist Southern Baptist, and accusing someone who'd date one but not the other of prejudice against Christians...which is either ignorant or disingenuous.

[smbolisnch]

55. How have I shown an inability to make distinctions?

It sounds to me like you are trying to blame me for these threads. Perhaps it is your own guilt at participating in them?

[Spider Jerusalem]

66. I'm not guilty; I've no reason to be.

I have vegan friends and acquaintances, and we get along fine. And I've said nothing that can be construed as prejudiced against vegans or vegetarians; only against zealots. Why should I feel guilty?

And you've shown an inability to make distinctions by assuming that reference to a specific type of vegan/vegetarian constitutes calumny against all; that is plainly as much arrant nonsense as if criticism of Jerry Falwell were called "Christian-bashing".

[smbolisnch]

74. You haven't participated in the threads in question?

Are you sure?

[Spider Jerusalem]

83. That's not what I said, now is it?

I suggest you reread my last reply. Closely. And try to comprehend it this time.

[Name removed]

31. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Name removed]

32. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Catholic Sensation]

38. fine they're an animal insurgency group

this site is all about compromise

[flvegan]

44. "animal insurgency" group? Shit, the WH sure could use you.

I mean...c'mon. That's good right-wing spin, though.

[Name removed]

46. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[smbolisnch]

49. Dolt??????

He questions one of your hateful posts and that makes him a dolt? I hardly think so.

Out come the personal insults.

[Catholic Sensation]

56. considering i didn't call them terrorists

i didn't post anything hateful. it's called a joke and if you are so uptight you missed it, that's entirely your problem.

[flvegan]

60. "Dolt" was pretty hateful.

I'd call you an asshole, but I'm above that.

Again, you implied the sarcasm where? I'm still waiting...

[Catholic Sensation]

64. by using hyperbole

i assumed you were smart enough to realize i wasn't being serious, i guess i made an ass out of "u and me"

[flvegan]

71. Backpedal, backpedal...you'll get there.

[Name removed]

72. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[smbolisnch]

65. Nice christian values there.

Can't provide a legitimate argument so you start name calling? I think "dolt" was hateful.

[Catholic Sensation]

69. and i think taking that post seriously is indicative of profound stupidity

we all have our faults

[smbolisnch]

82. You are big on the personal insults aren't you?

:eyes:
Way to feel that you are winning an argument.

[Catholic Sensation]

85. excuse me, who started with the calling me a right wing spinmeister

because they were too dense to realize i wasn't being serious

[smbolisnch]

88. Not I.

Yet you still insulted me.

[Catholic Sensation]

91. no instead you called what i said "hateful" when there was none evident

to anyone who is able to laugh.

[smbolisnch]

99. You are a riot. Really.

The point is, You attacked, for no reason.

[Catholic Sensation]

104. no the point is i was attacked for no reason

because some of you are so defensive about every little thing that a harmless joke which insulted nobody makes you flip out as though i denied the holocaust

[smbolisnch]

114. Where were you attacked?

And like I said to another poster, if we are being to sensitive, go post about radical feminists and see what kind of a sense of humr THEY have.

[flvegan]

93. Personal insults is the best you have? Wow.

At least you make me laugh.

[Catholic Sensation]

100. well it's good to see something does

because i was worried since you're totally unable to grasp the humorous effect of hyperbole you lacked the capacity to laugh

[flvegan]

106. Again...personal attacks. Heh heh. You're funny!

You seem frustrated. Angry. Upset.

[Catholic Sensation]

109. considering how you flipped about my insurgency line

i'd say you're even more so

[flvegan]

118. No. You made a statement with no inkling towards sarcasm or joke.

I wouldn't call it "flipping" as you stated. But then, you seem a little angry about the whole thing. You should try some relaxation techniques or something.

[flvegan]

51. Really? And you implied that...where?

Dolt? Good one. You sound angry.

[Catholic Sensation]

59. when i called them an insurgency

it's called a joke, sometimes people make hyperbole for humorous effect. i recommend watchin comedy central, you'll see plenty of things there of a similar nature.

[flvegan]

67. And you implied that this was a joke where?

I see comedians make fun of blacks, women, gays, etc, too. However, when I'm watching CC, I know this in advance (hence the name of the network). Not that it's right, so to speak, but I know in advance that they might say something that could be deemed hateful that I maybe shouldn't take as such.

[Catholic Sensation]

76. i shouldn't have to make it clear

that's the point, if you're unable to figure out someone calling an animal rights group is an animal insurgency group isn't being serious, that's entirely your problem.

[flvegan]

84. I'll bet your life is full of things being "someone else's problem"

Just a guess, though...

[Catholic Sensation]

87. and i bet your life is entirely boring with no sense of humor

[smbolisnch]

89. Nope, I can vouch that it is not.

But nice try.

[flvegan]

90. Ohhhh....seems I hit a sore spot. Sorry.

[friesianrider]

48. LOL, "animal insurgency"

God Almighty, do you work for President Chimp in your spare time? The White House needs your spin, my friend!

[Catholic Sensation]

53. see what i said to the person above who took me seriously

because what I said to them applies to you as well

[flvegan]

Prove up your point.

Pretty please.

[Placebo]

54. animal insurgency group, terrorist organization...

call them what you will, bottom line: THEY GO TOO FAR

they're fucked up crazies and a total nuisance

[flvegan]

57. What part of "prove up your point" didn't you get?

C'mon...you threw the "terrorist organization" out there. Prove it up. Do it. You must have some sort of proof, or you wouldn't throw such a right-wing fear mongering testimonial out there...would you?

[Placebo]

63. Listen we can engage in petty squabbles ALL DAY...

over the delicate nuances of classifying a group that has repeatedly and systematically crossed the societal boundaries we hold dear in decent society.

But I'm glad we could both agree that one of us is wrong. And that person in the wrong is PETA.

[smbolisnch]

75. You haven't provided any links yet, have you?

Because if you did, I missed them.

[Placebo]

92. Aside from the fact that Hitler was a STAUNCH vegetarian...

http://brianoconnor.typepad.com/animal_crackers/2004/02/petas_terrorist.html

http://www.animalrights.net/archives/year/2001/000247.html

http://www.consumerfreedom.com/news_detail.cfm/headline/2339

http://blogmark.mg.co.za/?q=node/1150

http://www.fb.org/views/focus/fo2001/fo1008.html

[smbolisnch]

96. What the FUCK does that have to do with anything?

:rofl:

[Placebo]

111. You totally dodged the links in my post.

TYPICAL. I produce the facts, you want to ignore them.

[smbolisnch]

117. Um Yeah, nice "sources".

As flvegan already pointed out, animalrights.net and Consumer Freedom are run by beef lobbyists and companies who test on animals. Hardly fair sources.

[flvegan]

120. But...but...googling is so enticing! So easy to "prove" things.

I kill me.

[Placebo]

121. You still haven't addressed the specific issues they raise...

It's easy to just make broad assumptions like that isn't it? Means you can just run away and act like you addressed the facts. When you didn't.

PETA = TERRORIST ORGANIZATION

[smbolisnch]

124. Because I think it's bullshit.

Plain and simple. I don't need to explain that. if a woman feels it's alright to wear a dead animal on her back, I have absolutely no problem whatsoever with someone throwing red paint on her. none.

[Placebo]

128. WHY ARE YOU FIGHTING ABOUT THIS?!?! CINDY IS IN A DITCH!!!

We should be focusing our efforts on that. Not this PETA nonsense.

[smbolisnch]

133. Ok, because god knows I cant possibly do two things at once.

I don't buy into the whole rationed compassion argument.

[Pithlet]

138. I think DU is capable of handling more than one subject.

And this is the lounge.

[Placebo]

141. Whatever efforts we devote away from Cindy to this PETA nonsense...

is one effort too many.

[Pithlet]

144. Nonsense.

I spent time reading a book I enjoyed last night. Guess that could have been time spent helping Cindy, too. I fully support Cindy and am doing all I personally can to help her. But, life can't and doesn't stop.

[Pithlet]

135. Actions like that

do nothing but hurt the cause. As much as I hate seeing someone wearing a fur coat, throwing paint on them will only make people sympathetic to the person you threw the paint on. If you really want to help the cause in that particular instance, education is a far better avenue. Throwing paint does nothing to educate, and only inflames.

Arguing for such also doesn't help you in your very reasonable request in your OP. It will be so easy for someone to point at you and say "You're not being very tolerant."

[flvegan]

127. Psst...I hate to repeat myself, but PROVE UP YOUR POST.

Your bs links...and speaking of broad assumptions, whoa!

[flvegan]

103. What a joke. No he wasn't.

BTW, nice links...animalrights.net (run by Beronsini, chimp beater) or Consumer Freedom...heh heh. Which kool aid did you drink? Had to be the Grape. HAD to be!

[Skip Intro]

137. Oh, "Terrorist" AND "Hitler" references? Can "Satan" be far behind?

[shockra]

139. Hitler was not a vegetarian.

http://www.foodrevolution.org/askjohn/47.htm

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

78. Positive Results Produced by PETA

Spring
Limited Brands pledges no cruelly obtained Australian wool
Columbus-based retail giant, Limited Brands, which operates more than 3,775 stores under The Limited, Express, Henri Bendel, Victoria's Secret and other major names, has shunned cruelly obtained Australian merino wool. After PETA showed Limited Brand's vice president of external communications, Anthony Hebron, video footage of Australian lambs being partially skinned alive during a procedure called mulesing and sheep suffering by the tens of thousands onboard multitiered death ships bound for slaughter in the Middle East, the company pledged that it "will not knowingly sell products which contain Australian merino wool until the practice of mulesing and live exporting end." With 2005 sales exceeding $9.4 billion, Limited Brands' decision sends a powerful message to the Australian wool industry that cruelty to animals will not be tolerated.

http://www.peta.org/about/victories.asp

http://www.peta.org/about/victoryItem.asp?id=425

http://www.peta.org/feat/PETAMilestones/1981.html

http://www.peta.org/feat/PETAMilestones/1984.html

[sir_captain]

170. I don't think it's really valid

to defend an organization by using the PR from their own site. Hardly objective, no?

Clearly, like em or not, PETA has done some questionable things.

http://www.activistcash.com/biography.cfm/bid/3255

[flvegan]

79. All we've agreed upon is your inability to prove up your bs post.

"Terrorist organization" is more than a "delicate nuance" don't you think?

[Skip Intro]

134. that's a load of crap

pure and simple, a load of crap

did you hafta drag out that "terrorist" label?

Are you sure that's what you meant to say?

[LisaL]

37. Gee, we pick on everybody else, why should Peta be any

different. For one, I don't like this organization.
But even if I did, why should Peta be so special that no one should be able to pick on it?

[smbolisnch]

42. Nobody picks on the ACLU, or NAACP, or any other such organization.

But for some reason, animal rights organizations are terrorists. :rofl:

[ScreamingMeemie]

43. Hey, it's like religion to me. Don't force me to listen to it and I'm okay

with it. The problem I have, is that I have to listen to it. :hi:

[smbolisnch]

47. The only time it is even brought up is when veggies are forced to

defend themselves. If you can show me ONE thread that was started in order to preach veganism to you, I'll buy that point.

[ScreamingMeemie]

50. I have a life in the Real World, and yes, I have a friend who preaches

PETA junk to me. If you re read my post, you'll understand what I speak of. One, medicallywise, veganism would kill me, so save it. :hi:

[smbolisnch]

58. Veganism would kill you? How.

And besides the point that I wasn't even suggestion you become vegan? And you just illustrated my point. ONE person is preachy with you, so you label and ENTIRE movement? :eyes:

[ScreamingMeemie]

70. You betcha. I am of the belief that they have stepped over the line.

Due to gastrointestinal and esophageal issues I am reduced to eating two protein shakes a day, prescription, containing animal fat and byproducts. The entire movement has embarassed itself by shoving (yes shoving) its beliefs (kind of like religion) on the rest of the planet. Unless of course you agree that Rikki Lake was wise to throw paint. :shrug: I'll not use eyes. I like to discuss things on a respectful level, if you don't mind. I gave you an example of one person, but I know several more. FWIW, my problem is not with vegans. If you can do it, and it works and is healthy for you, more power to you, but I will never defend the actions of PETA until they tone them down.

[Placebo]

143. Thank you MrsGrumpy!

:thumbsup: :yourock:

[Lilith Velkor]

52. PETA deserves no respect

I have no problem with veggies unless they support those assholes.

[smbolisnch]

62. If you are just going to come in here and spew your hate, please

stay out of the conversation. You have a problem with me because I support PETA? Really? :eyes:

[BikeWriter]

80. Try denying PeTa attacks our meat suppliers, our circuses, our rodeos.

[flvegan]

108. "Attacks" them? Exposes them. There's a difference.

[BikeWriter]

126. Exposes them for using animals? ROFLMFBO!

[flvegan]

130. Exposes them for mistreating animals.

If you find animal cruelty amusing, then so be it. Just please stay away from them for everyone's benefit.

[BikeWriter]

156. I have a right to use animals. Animal rightists want to eliminate it.

I don't think so!

[Pithlet]

172. You do. But, you don't have a right to mis-use them.

And that is what a lot of animal activism is saying, extremist actions by certain groups aside.

[Lilith Velkor]

107. You brought it up

You don't like my opinion, tough. PETA are a bunch of antichoice bullies who are no better than freepers. They do their cause about as much good as NAMBLA does for gay rights, and the sooner they are shunned from the rest of the Left, the better.

[smbolisnch]

119. Not going to happen. I think closed minded zealots like yourself

will be shunned form the left first.

[Lilith Velkor]

154. Nice personal attack

Typical PETArd...

[Name removed]

157. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Lilith Velkor]

158. Is this how you convince people to give up meat?

Good luck with that...

[Name removed]

162. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Lilith Velkor]

171. Your commitment to mutual respect never ceases to amaze me.

Well done! :applause:

[sir_captain]

161. Irony's a bitch, isn't it?

Here you are starting a thread purportedly about respecting the opinions of others, and then you go ahead and break the rules with personal insults for people who disagree with you? That's bullshit.

I don't even disagree with your original premise, but the way you're going about it you must be trying to pick a fight.

[smbolisnch]

165. No, I am pissed at people for turning this into a flamewar.

I am fucking tired of it. And I am done with this thread, and the lounge in general. I will stick to GD and the sub-groups.

[sir_captain]

174. All due respect

but this thread was a flamewar the minute *you* started it.

You could have made your very reasonable point without causing a huge issue very easily, and you chose to do it the way that you wanted to. God, you even admitted in your own OP that you were going to get flamed, so you knew it was coming!

[flvegan]

112. Guess you have a problem with me, then.

Prejudiced much?

[Lilith Velkor]

122. Yup

If you support those dog-killers, I suggest therapy. That's totally sick.

[flvegan]

132. I support my local animal shelter too. They're dog killers, too according

to you.

Ever volunteer in an open-intake facility? Ever euthanize a homeless animal because there's no space?

Do you really, honestly, have any idea at all what you're talking about?

[Lilith Velkor]

148. Does that shelter promise to find them homes

and then euthanize them and put them in the dumpster? No. Local animal shelters also don't go around dumping paint on people or otherwise bully and harass people for what they eat or wear.

Yes I know what I'm talking about, and I could not care less how ethical you think you are.

[Placebo]

182. They sure don't.

They're a sick disgraceful DISRESPECTFUL organization.

[BikeWriter]

61. That will happen when PeTa gets off meat eater's asses!

I have nothing against vegans. PeTa? That's different!
Perhaps if PeTa didn't financially support Elf and Alf, and support terrorist acts against people who use animals. I happen to appreciate the advances in medicine and research that extend all our odds of a healthy life.
I do not believe extremist animal rights advocates should be allowed to actively interfere with my right to enjoy eating meat or with anyone's rights to provide it to me. Peta's ultimate purpose is that no one be allowed to own or use animals as pets, entertainment, food, or for research. I have a problem with that.

[Borgnine]

163. Some vegetarians hate PETA.

Me, for example. They do us no favors.

[Dastard Stepchild]

68. Actually, I contribute to PETA as well..

I don't really appreciate being likened to a nutjob fanatic myself. People are free to form their own opinions about animal rights people, but I don't think it at all appropriate to relegate the status of all PETA contributors to drooling, proselytizing sycophants. It's just not true. The sweeping generalizations are both hurtful and uninformed. I don't know that I appreciate my ethics being mocked - I tend to take my moral stance fairly seriously. I have a great sense of humor, but some things I don't find particularly funny. Of course, I am generally averse to mocking people's lives. I guess I am just polite that way.

[Left Is Write]

94. Off-topic: Is that a Lynda Barry drawing in your avatar?

[Dastard Stepchild]

97. Yes :)

It is Marlys - my favorite character ever! :)

[alarimer]

73. No

Not when they call people insane for eating meat. Fuck that shit.

[smbolisnch]

86. I'm sorry, have I called you insane?

No, I didn't think so.

[flvegan]

98. Or me? Have I? No.

[Piperay]

105. What about meat eaters

who call us names, is that alright??? Especially when I for one have never called a meat eater anything.

[smbolisnch]

110. Of course it's alright.

:eyes: Just sit down and shut up, you, PETA supporter!!

[PittPoliSci]

81. ever been told you're going to rot in hell for eating nothing but veggies?

well i have because i eat meat by many in the lovely peta organization. i have no problem with vegans, but when you tell me what i should be putting in my body, then I've got a fuckin' problem.

[Piperay]

101. I have been called a 'commie'

because I don't eat meat so I guess name calling goes both ways. I have a 'fuckin problem' with people who condemn me because of what I DON'T put in my body.

[shockra]

125. Corporate America tells you what to eat all day long.

Can you turn on the tv for even 10 minutes without seeing an Arby's, Burger King, McDonald's, Outback, Subway, KFC, Popeye's, Sizzler, Carl's Junior, Sea Galley, Red Lobster, Skipper's, Friday's, Applebee's, Olive Garden, Dairy Queen commercial, ad infinitum?

That's one of the reasons I don't eat meat. I can't help but think the diets they're pushing are more for their own benefits than mine.

[CubsFan1982]

102. Won't someone PLEASE think of the vegetables????

Where are THEIR advocates? Who's speaking up for the defenseless carrot that is picked, processed, and served in a Washington fat cat's salad? Won't someone PLEASE think of the poor vegetables????

[Spinzonner]

116. So, you have depths of compassion for the vegetables

but it's every fruit for itself ?

Botanical Bigot ...

[RevCheesehead]

181. ROFLMAO.

:rofl: Seriously, I'm tearing up here!

[Pithlet]

113. Both sides should lay off each other.

Neither side is innocent. I roll my eyes whenever the classic "People Eating Tasty Animals" joke inevetably rears its boorish head. Hyuck hyuck. At the same time, I've been involved in some nasty flame exchances with vegans on subjects such as medical research, nutritional value of a non-veg diet, etc. And, in real life, it can be worse. I've never been personally vilified by a vegan here at DU, but I've encountered some nasty ones in real life, and I'm sure I'm not the only one, so people may be projecting that here (not that it excuses it).

No one should criticise others for their food choices. I respect and even admire those who will so drastically alter their lifestyles for a cause they so strongly believe in, the way vegans do.

[PinkPantherChick]

115. Done. and kicked. However,

If you don't want to be picked on then PLEASE don't take God's name in vain. To ME that is more repulsive than anything else on the planet. Just my own 2 cents worth--don't shoot the messenger or my own sense of right and wrong. Eat anything you want and say anything you want--except that. Deal? Be blessed and enjoy those veggies.

[elshiva]

123. :)

:)

[RevCheesehead]

183. ...

:) :) :hi:

[slutticus]

167. ...

:rofl:

[distantearlywarning]

129. I don't personally care what other people eat

or don't eat.

What I fail to comprehend is why anyone else does either. And it's the fanatics that piss me off. It's just no fun being friends with someone who constantly harrasses you about your diet - it's like being friends with a Christian fundie. (See my post in the other thread about the totally annoying vegan ex-boyfriend from hell.) I don't try to force rare steaks on the vegetarians I meet, and I expect them to show me the same courtesy (but apparently that's too much for some people to handle).

I don't know much about the whole PETA thing, other than to say that one of the other extremely annoying people I ever had the misfortune to know in my life was a very young (in every way) co-worker who was obsessed with animal rights and was fond of handing out PETA tracts to people when they wore leather coats to work or brought sandwich meat within her line of sight. It was funny the first time. After the 3th time, people started ducking into the bathroom when they saw her coming down the hall.

She was definitely living up to a high moral standard, but was completely failing to get the message across to others, which I think kind of defeats the whole purpose.

And the worst part in my eyes? She came to work one day and showed us all pictures of her brand-new pug puppy. Which she had paid $900 for, and was keeping in what I knew was a bad and unstable living situation. Apparently she conveniently "forgot" that there are many dogs on death row at every city's local pound who are desperate for a home and can be taken home for $65 or so. And maybe she also "forgot" that it's irresponsible to acquire animals when you can't take care of yourself.

Or maybe she just thought it would be cool to own a very popular and expensive breed of dog. After all, it probably got her a lot of attention. Yeah, maybe that was it. Some animal rights activist she was.

And I, who have cared for no less than 4 pound kitties and 3 pound rabbits in my life (several were acquired as older animals, and one was within hours of being put down), am a very, very bad and selfish person who cares nothing about the plight of animals in this world. At least according to this person. But whatever.

Sorry about the rant. I guess my point is that I just hate fanaticism in all forms. I don't think it does any good in the world. Even if your message is a good one, which animal rights is, you do harm to your cause when you are defensive and harrass people and make them feel bad about themselves. I think it is better for people who wish to change the behavior of others to be a shining example.

[TimeChaser]

180. Agreed

I've known a few people like that too.

Whatever lifestyle you choose, fine. Just please, please don't act all holier than thou. That's when you start acting fundie-like.

[Name removed]

131. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[ScreamingMeemie]

136. I don't think so. I just think you're being harsh on a large group of

people. I am (sort of) a Christian, but you won't find me posting a "hey, lay off the Christians". This is a diverse board, with many opinions. I stated my reasoning and am not lockstep with anything. I drew my conclusions on my own.

What is pathetic is when anyone, from any group, tries using a really broad brush. I have been offended by threads posted here...and so I hide them. I hope you have a better evening.

[Spinzonner]

140. Disagreeing with you

is not equivalent to 'trying to piss veggies off'

Being 'pissed off' is a personal response that each person is responsible.

But be provoked by everyone who doesn't agree with you if you so choose; it's your human and animal right.

[distantearlywarning]

142. I agree.

Thanks for saying that so succinctly.

:hi:

[Pystoff]

145. LMAO I see the DU playground is in full effect today

*covers a steak in bean sprouts* this is for both sides here tonite *bites into it sprouts hanging out of mouth and juices running down chin* Mmmmmm tastes like murder and grass hehehe.

I hope I offended both sides! :evilgrin:

[LoZoccolo]

146. "simply because they choose not to eat animals"

:rofl:

These are the people who think my grandma should have died instead of getting a pig valve transplant!

[Skip Intro]

147. I've never understood the intense hatred PETA stirs in some DUers.

It has boggled my mind since I joined DU. I do not get the utter revulsion some have where PETA, and/or animal rights is brought up. Its not just a difference of opinion, its a passion - like somebody's trying to steal their birthday or something. It just blows my mind the pure hatred for PETA and/or the discussion of rights for other living things.

According to some, its as if its akin to Nazism, you know. :shrug:

edited for clarification

[Pithlet]

151. Nazism?

Participating on a message board and flaming somone for their food choice is akin to genocide?!?! What an awful thing to say. Okay, time for some perspective.

Unless you were being sarcastic and I missed it, in which case I humbly apologize.

[Skip Intro]

155. Read the thread, post # 92.

No, I wasn't saying that, I was referencing the OPs post #92.

[Pithlet]

164. That wasn't clear

I couldn't tell you were referencing another post. 92 is idiotic, but had already left my conscious memory by the time I got to yours. I think a vast majority of DU knows better than to equate Nazism with veganism.

[Skip Intro]

176. I edited it. sarcasm is messy when you do it wrong, eh?

it was clumsy and unclear

I'm glad you said something before other readers got the same impression, that I was preaching what I was trying to riddicule.

[Pithlet]

177. It's all too easy to do on a message board.

That's why I added the caveat after I initially chastised you. I figured it might be something like that :)

[distantearlywarning]

152. The thing is, though...

I haven't actually seen any discussion about "rights for other living things" here tonight.

All I've seen is bickering over semantics and whether expressing a contrary viewpoint constitutes hate.

I bet many of us who posted to the pro-meat side might surprise you with our thoughts about who/what deserves rights.

[sir_captain]

153. Wow. That's just nuts.

That's honestly one of the more ridiculous things I've seen posted on DU. You really ought to be ashamed of yourself.

[Skip Intro]

173. OMG.

I was referencing the OP.

I was referencing post #92.

I had assumed someone had read thru the thread before getting to my post.

I'll edit it.

[sir_captain]

178. ok, cool

sorry--i was just kind of horrified there for a second

sarcasm definitely doesn't always come across in text...

[tuvor]

175. See post 159

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=3824742&mesg_id=3825527

[Skip Intro]

186. See post 184

[slutticus]

149. What thread(s) brought this on?

:popcorn:

[Pystoff]

168. ATHF

Yeah baby Meatwad is my hero....and if cooked right damn tasty LOL.

[Ksec]

150. Relax..and have a burger

[BikeWriter]

160. Thanks, make mine raw, please. :-)

[tuvor]

159. PETA provided financial support for known terrorist Rodney Coronado.

Just calling a spade a spade.

http://www.activistcash.com/biography.cfm/bid/3255

And that, along with PETA's refusal to admit that this was a stupid thing to do, is enough for me to NOT lay off PETA if the situation presents itself.

As far as dissing vegans and vegetarians, I'm sad that you've perceived such an attitude. It doesn't belong here.

[Skip Intro]

184. Blatant Corporate Propaganda (aka, rw bullshit front group)

BCP anyone?

I looked at the site, read the "shocking" activities of these evil people who want to do great harm by helping hampsters and such, and then read the fine print.

your link to activistcash.com led to the parent consumerfreedom.com - Center for Consumer Freedom which is exposed here: http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Center_for_Consumer_Freedom

snip:

The Center for Consumer Freedom (CCF) (formerly called the "Guest Choice Network") is a front group for the restaurant, alcohol and tobacco industries. It runs media campaigns which oppose the efforts of scientists, doctors, health advocates, environmentalists and groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving, calling them "the Nanny Culture -- the growing fraternity of food cops, health care enforcers, anti-meat activists, and meddling bureaucrats who 'know what's best for you.' "

[LoZoccolo]

166. Click this thread for some BIG NEWS!

:party:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=105x3825525

[chaska]

169. I don't have time for bullshit flamefests like this, but this meat eater..

stands in solidarity with PETA and the Veg community.

Grow up, children.

edit: typo

[progmom]

185. no problem

i'm always just a half-inch away from being a vegetarian myself. :hug:

[alarcojon]

187. I will always respect vegetarians and vegans

but I disagree with many of PETA's tactics.

There should be a place here on DU to intelligently and open-mindedly discuss this organization's successess and failures. I agree that the Lounge is not it.

I see people talking right past each other in many of the posts above, and it is unfortunate.

[Avalux]

188. Locking.

Did this thread have a point?