Going too far

Summary

“Going too far…”—a short piece reprinted from the British magazine *Compassion*—challenges readers to reflect on how far their ethical choices should extend in defence of non‑human life. The anonymous author notes that animal lovers are often mocked as “cranks” but asks whether it is unreasonable to scrutinise the ingredients of cosmetics and toiletries to ensure no creature has suffered in their manufacture. Should one avoid perfumes derived from musk deer and civet cats, shampoos tested on rabbits, or cheeses made with animal rennet? Is it excessive to reject delicacies such as frogs’ legs, or to shun crocodile and snake skin accessories because of the cruelty inflicted in obtaining them? The article points out that twenty‑five thousand silkworms are boiled alive to produce a pound of silk and commends those who wear *ahimsa* (peace) silk woven from discarded cocoons. It questions the morality of fur and ivory trade and highlights the plight of whales hunted for cosmetics and cat‑food. In each case the author implies that small consumer choices can either perpetuate or alleviate suffering. Ultimately, he or she concludes, there is no universal rule; each person must follow their conscience and act with awareness of the interconnectedness of all life. Labels of eccentricity are irrelevant compared with the satisfaction of knowing one has helped create a gentler world. By broadening the Jain principle of non‑violence to everyday consumption, the piece urges readers to cultivate empathy and to recognise the rights of all beings to live free from exploitation.