Way of Compassion (Paperback)

In a world filled with what seems only bad news, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the extent of environmental degradation, violence to other species, and collective suffering. The problems seem so immense and so intractable that they often lead only to one despairing question: "What can I do?" According to this book, the answer is "a lot."

The Way of Compassion collects the inspiring, thoughtful and eminently practical wisdom of contemporary thinkers and activists from all walks of life, working to maintain sustainable lifestyles, practice nonviolence in all its forms and create a deeper spiritual appreciation of our place in the world. These pioneers offer timely, sensible and sometimes challenging advice on how we can all play our parts in creating a more harmonious and peaceful planet.

Contributors include: Carol J. Adams, Matt Ball, Rod Coronado, Roger and Deborah Fouts, Maneka Gandhi, Jane Goodall, Dick Gregory, James Hillman, Howard Lyman, Mia MacDonald, Jim Mason, John Robbins, Paul Shapiro, Henry Spira, among many others.

Jungian psychologist James Hillman, animal behavioralist Jane Goodall, humorist/social activist Dick Gregory and environmentalist Maneka Gandhi (India's Minister of Welfare) are among the contributors to this eloquent, forceful body of writings that forges vital links between vegetarianism, environmentalism, animal rights and the quest for social justice. All the pieces are drawn from Satya: A Magazine of Vegetarianism, Environmentalism, and Animal Advocacy, which Rowe edits. For readers contemplating a switch away from a meat-centered diet, this cheerfully inclusive volume includes diverse perspectives: Philadelphia rabbi Arthur Waskow's "Eco-Kosher" living strategy; British theologian Andrew Linzey's theocentric philosophy of animal rights; African American WBAI radio host Shelton Walden's thoughts on how the animal advocacy movement can reach out to the black community. One essay, by Rynn Berry, lays to rest the myth that Hitler was a vegetarian: the Fuhrer gorged on Bavarian sausages, ham, liver and pigeon, though he occasionally went on "vegetarian" binges to cure his flatulence and excessive sweating. Selections range from timely reports on "mad cow disease" and genetic engineering to wake-up calls concerning Earth's diminishing resources and a critique of Americans' dependence on the automobile. What unites the contributions is the shared conviction that gratuitous, massive violence against animals has no place in a future world free of exploitation and domination. Anyone concerned about the state of the planet will relish drinking from this clear and bracing pool of wisdom.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.