Speciesism definition
Veganism is a lifestyle that seeks to avoid, as far as practically possible, all forms of exploitation of animals for food, clothing, and other purposes, as otherwise ethical fundamental rights would be violated.
Simply put, vegans do not want animals to be ABUSED for them, and veganism thus represents the practical rejection of discrimination against other species (SPECIESISM - see below) in our everyday lives.
Veganism is therefore primarily not a specific diet but a justice movement in which animal rights are the logical extension of human rights. This conclusion arises from the observation that there is generally no ethically significant difference between humans and non-human animals regarding whom we may exploit, which could justify the devaluation of animals as objects of use without simultaneously stripping certain groups of humans or other sentient beings of their basic rights.
Broadly outlined, all animal products are avoided primarily for ethical reasons: this includes, except in survival situations, the consumption of animal bodies (meat, fish, insects, etc.), all forms of animal milk (milk, cheese, chocolates, other dairy products), and other animal secretions (eggs, honey, caviar, etc.) in general.
Furthermore, the consumption of animal skins and furs is generally not possible without violating the ethical rights of animals, meaning that leather, furs, wool, silk, feathers, and other clothing of animal origin should not be used.
Non-essential products tested on animals in cruel experiments, such as cosmetics and various hygiene products, as well as their animal ingredients, are by definition also not vegan.
The exploitation of sentient beings also includes the instrumentalization of animals for human entertainment, as seen in rodeos, circuses, zoos, aquariums, etc. The trade and breeding of animals as commodities, for example in the pet or animal feed industry, is also to be rejected as unethical.
