Plant Kindness, or Why a Former Shepherd Now Counts the Benefits of Veganism

Once upon a time, there was a shepherd wondering how to make the world a better place. After all, sheep are not the most talkative of animals, so guarding them brings ample time for reflection. Back then, it was little more than a distraction in the mind of a 15-year-old boy who needed money for high school. The years have passed; he is now a vegan and still wonders.

Can veganism make the world a better place? In this book I argue the answer is a joyful 'Yes.' You can expect a balanced discussion of arguments against veganism and whether this way of life is possible in practice and to what extent. I won't insist much on bad-faith arguments, the silly ones, the jokes or the insults, but there will be a 'Fun corner' dedicated to those.

Throughout the book, I'll mention my experience as a shepherd and other work with animals, but it is not the main focus of the book. That will have to wait for another time. Many arguments will already be familiar to people interested in ethical living and activism on behalf of animals, though even such readers can expect surprises (such as mentions of wild animal suffering).

This is an accessible book, filled with references and witty illustrations, so it would make for a present for anyone interested in a more ethical living. The price is rather on the lower end because I believe knowledge should be easily accessible. The price is not a reflection of the books quality - that is for the reader to decide. My hope is that it will be worth your time. I wish you a good journey through my book and life in general. I hope you'll be able to plant kindness wherever your journey takes you.

Petrică is a former shepherd, passionate about philosophy and animal ethics.

He is also a regular contributor to Daily Philosophy. For all his articles see the Shepherd of Ideas website or subscribe to his Medium page.

When taking a break from writing, he likes to cook. Find his recipes at Balkan Umami. The recipes are inspired by his childhood in the mountains of northeast Romania and new tastes in plant-based cooking.