Chapter Three: Can Plants Feel Pain?

Plants are intelligent and capable of remarkable adaptations. They respond to light, water, and soil and have a form of communication system. For example, they emit chemical signals when reacting to environmental triggers. This is akin to a plant warning nearby plants when being attacked by insects. These complex behaviors prevent us from viewing them as passive entities. However, intelligence does not mean consciousness. For a living being to feel pain, it must have a central nervous system, like animals and humans. Biologically, plants lack a central nervous system and therefore consciousness. Hence, No, Plants Do Not Feel Pain. Pain in animals is a necessary mechanism to avoid danger or defend themselves. Plants, however, lack this ability, as the sensation of pain would serve no purpose; they cannot defend themselves or escape.

Let’s debate the opposite perspective and assume plants do feel pain. The U.S. Department of Agriculture states that it takes up to 16 pounds of plants to produce 1 pound of beef. Similarly, in the UK, 30% of agricultural land is dedicated to growing animal feed, much of which could otherwise be used for human plant-based diets or rewilding efforts. Producing animal products requires significantly more plant resources compared to vegan alternatives. Thus, by eating plants directly, we reduce the total number of plants harmed.

Additionally, veganism enables reforestation and wildlife revitalization. For instance, in the UK, rewilding projects like the Knepp Estate in West Sussex are reversing biodiversity loss by turning former farmland into thriving ecosystems. Veganism not only minimizes harm to plants (even under the assumption that they feel pain) but also significantly reduces environmental damage. By default, it contributes to protecting the planet, increasing biodiversity, and fostering sustainability.

Still not convinced? For more insights, check out Ed Winters’s TED Talk: Every Argument Against Veganism.

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