In the western Indian state of Gujarat lies the city of Palitana, a beacon of philosophical and ethical evolution. As the first city in the world to ban the sale and consumption of non-vegetarian food, Palitana has challenged the prevailing paradigms of human dominion over other species. Rooted in Jain principles of non-violence (Ahimsa), the city’s historic decision invites deeper contemplation on the moral, environmental, and existential implications of our dietary choices. Could a vegan world, inspired by such pioneering examples, represent a “protopian” dimension – a world not of utopian perfection but one of incremental, harmonious progress toward universal peace?
The Ethical Dimension: Beyond Speciesism
Speciesism, a term coined by philosopher Richard D. Ryder, refers to the arbitrary discrimination against non-human animals based on the belief in human superiority. This hierarchical mindset mirrors other forms of systemic oppression, such as racism, sexism, and classism, where one group’s dominance leads to the exploitation of another. In a speciesist world, the commodification of animals as food, clothing, and entertainment becomes normalized, perpetuating a cycle of violence and suffering.
Palitana’s ban challenges this norm, asserting that all sentient beings have an intrinsic right to live free from harm. Jain monks in Palitana have long observed rigorous non-violence, refusing to eat after sunset to avoid harming even microscopic life forms. By extending this principle to the entire city, Palitana has demonstrated that a society can thrive without the exploitation of animals. This ethos, if adopted globally, could dismantle the foundations of speciesism and, by extension, other forms of oppression rooted in dominance and exploitation.
The Environmental Imperative: Reversing Destruction
Animal agriculture is one of the leading drivers of environmental destruction, accounting for significant greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), livestock farming contributes to 14.5% of all anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions—more than the combined emissions of the global transportation sector.
A vegan world could address these crises at their root. Transitioning to plant-based systems of food production could not only reduce emissions but also restore ecosystems, conserve resources, and mitigate climate change. Palitana’s example serves as a microcosm of what is possible: a community that aligns its practices with the ecological necessity of living within planetary boundaries.
Toward a Protopian Future: Incremental Peace
While utopia suggests an unreachable ideal, protopia envisions gradual and continuous improvement – each step moving us closer to a more just and equitable world. A vegan world, inspired by cities like Palitana, represents a protopian vision where humanity actively reduces harm and fosters coexistence. Such a dimension of peace would address the root causes of much human and non-human suffering:
- Ethical Consistency: By rejecting the exploitation of animals, we reinforce the principles of compassion and justice, extending them to all sentient beings.
- Global Health: Vegan diets are associated with lower risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, alleviating human suffering caused by preventable illnesses.
- Cultural Harmony: Breaking down speciesist hierarchies can inspire broader social change, creating a culture that values empathy over exploitation.
- Environmental Restoration: A shift away from animal agriculture would regenerate ecosystems, ensuring a livable planet for future generations.
Overcoming Resistance: Lessons from Palitana
Palitana‘s journey was not without resistance; the decision to ban non-vegetarian food faced pushback from those who viewed it as an infringement on personal freedom. However, this resistance underscores the deeper philosophical tension between individual choice and collective responsibility. In a world grappling with climate crises and ethical dilemmas, Palitana offers a roadmap for balancing these forces. Its policies prioritize the long-term well-being of all sentient life over immediate, individual desires.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
Palitana’s bold stance is a clarion call for humanity to rethink its relationship with animals and the environment. By embracing a vegan ethos, the world can move toward a protopian dimension—one where peace and empathy replace exploitation and suffering. Such a shift would not happen overnight, but every step counts. From individual choices to systemic change, each act of compassion contributes to the gradual realization of a harmonious coexistence with all life forms.
Palitana has illuminated the path. It is now up to us to follow, creating a world where Ahimsa becomes not just an ideal, but a lived reality. To celebrate this, we can stream vegan, British-Gujarati artist NEO 10Y‘s intentional songs such as CHOOSE LOVE, and Shortcut To World Peace.