Vegetarianism is a link to perfection and peace. But it's a small link. There are lots of other issues: apartheid , vivisection, political prisoners, the arms race. There's so much going on in this world today, so much ignorance among people. That's not to say I'm not standing amongst everybody. But the point is, what can we do now? That's the thing about vegetarianism; it's an individual's decision and it's something you have control over. How many things do we really have control over?
Interpretation
Vegetarianism represents a personal choice toward a better world, yet it is just one aspect of many larger issues we face.
In this quote, River Phoenix emphasizes the significance of vegetarianism not only as a diet choice but also as a moral stance towards perfection and peace. However, he acknowledges that it is only one small link in a vast network of global issues such as apartheid and political oppression. He highlights the importance of recognizing our individual power to make choices amidst the overwhelming challenges in the world, prompting us to consider what actions we can take personally.
In practice
In a discussion about ethical eating, one could quote this to emphasize the personal responsibility we have in making choices.
We need an extreme movement because what is happening to animals is so extreme. Some misinformed people claim that animal rights activists are terrorists, but these people are simply ignorant of who the real terrorists are - the companies and industries that torture literally billions of animals each year.
Institutionalised in sports, the military, acculturated sexuality, the history and mythology of heroism, violence is taught to boys until they becomes its advocates.
Is there not a sort of remorse that precedes sin? Was it remorse at the very fact that I existed?
I believe in only one thing: liberty; but I do not believe in liberty enough to want to force it upon anyone.
I think it is a problem of our society that we don't enjoy (ourselves.) We have these values, like, you have to be rich, you have to get a diploma, you have to work hard, otherwise you are useless, you are nothing but a pariah. And the book asks, 'Is it true? This is what my mom told me, but is it true?
The snow in the mountains was melting and Bunny had been dead for several weeks before we came to understand the gravity of our situation.
Searching for precious goods leads astray.
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