Quote:
Originally Posted by big_dav_2001
I just reallised that my previous post may be taken incorrectly and may be a little unpopular, so please let me explain.
I what im trying to say is that i do not support whaling in any way, shape, or form, but i do understand it.
Care should be taken to ensure that numbers are sustainable, but i think that just because our culture says its wrong doesnt make it wrong.
|
The problem is hunting them in any numbers is not sustainable. Most whale species only calve every 3-4 years and that's with a baby that usually gestates for 18 months. So, in actual fact, they have babies only once every 5-6 years on average. It takes them many years to mature to reproductive age (about the same as humans, some even longer) and an orphaned calf is as good as dead. Most of the whales, including Minke Whales, are now at the point where those taken are sub adults or smaller than what they used to be. Japan's so called "scientific" whaling is supposed to be restricted to Minke Whales, yet they know they've been hunting other species because they've done genetic tests on some of the meat that ends up in markets and restaurants. They've found Humpback, Fin, Right and others...even Blue Whale meat. All those other species are protected species. What's been done about it....nothing. The politicians of the other nations are gutless and/or don't really care at all. All they do is dance around the issues, make noise and hope the problem just blows over.
As far as belief systems and old cultural practices goes, don't get me started on those. It sufficient to say that if an old belief or cultural practice makes no sense anymore and is an anachronism and/or is possibly causing problems etc, then it needs to change. Humans have the capacity to change their ways and work towards a common good for everyone and everything. It's about time they start using that capacity.