domathy wrote:
I know of one partcular advocate of eating a vegan diet and his bone density was increasing into his early 60's (medically unheard of) - but this was a specific type of diet, not your standard vegan fayre.
I sometimes wonder about what natural means. I mean, if we were meant to do only whats natural then we would still be swinging from the trees (if we subscibe to theory of evolution). The reason why we are where we are is because we push boundaries and create solutions to our needs. Nature creates challenges for us in some ways hence why we make clothes and create shelter. Its confusing really, as I dont think the solution is to go back to living in caves (fully embracing nature), nor do i think science/technology can solve our problems (trying to conquor nature). I think the answer is somewhere in the middleground - and tailoring things as best we can (using intuition to feel our way along). So, whilst I agree that a vegan diet may not be natural as such (although physiologically speaking it may be), for some people it is a natural choice.
If I'm understanding what you're saying, then I would say that I have given the subject another look from your perspective, and I agree. You make a valid point. If the things we do aren't natural, then we simply wouldn't be facilitating them. What is artificiality when one really thinks about? Creating a home may be considered artificial, but many creatures do, not just us. Beavers, ants, and termites make some truly impressive structures. They're typically viewed as natural, though they alter the land around them to suit their needs like we do. Now that I think about it, it may be just be another ideological/perceptional attempt by humans to disassociate themselves from the other animals of Earth. Delusions of grandeur at it's finest.
I don't think the solution would be to go back to dwelling in caves either. I do agree that some middle ground should be found. A level of respect and balance between nature and machine would be best.
Thanks Dom, it's conversations like this which keep me coming back.
True, and those are good parrallels too - we're all just beavers at the end of the day.
And whilst diet is still a confusing subject and I don't know whats 'right' for sure - I like to raise the question of what natural really means. Its funny when someone has a house, car and wardrobe - yet says vegan diet isnt 'natural' because we wouldnt sustain it in the wild.
It bends your mind if you think about all this suff too much, but Im sure one day it will become clearer, but i think maybe we need to 'expand' our minds if we are to be ready for the scoop.
