In Reply to: it is too easy for the consumers to just say 'we need to get along...' posted by Brad on September 16, 2005 at 15:13:50:

Let's be clear. I am NOT a spearfisher. I am a recreational diver and underwater photographer who has taken my camera into the water on every single dive with only one exception in the last year and a half.

I am a consumer if you're talking about the food chain. I am not a vegetarian but I could be with some lifestyle changes (as opposed to some who claim they COULD NEVER be a vegetarian.)

All those disclosures said, we are ALL part of the food chain. I eat. You eat. Most humans are omniverous. I don't think it's being selfish to take a fish or other form of seafood. It's feeding oneself or one's family. What's wrong with that? It's self-preservation.

To expect every person of every culture to become vegetarian is not realistic. It would be great, but it is not going to happen!
Sustainable practices are the answer.

So, I don't think it's selfish to be a spearfisher. It's part of the hunter/gatherer that's wired into most of us. And it's eco-friendly.

I repeat: I am not a spearfisher but I'll defend one's right to be one.

Yes, we CAN all get along.

This broken record needs to go and get some things done. TTFN!

Debbie
OC Divebums