The ecophilic principle of vegetarianism

The object of this research is the ecophilic and ecophobic trends in collective consciousness. The subject of this research is vegetarianism as an ecophilic and eco-theological concept. The relevance of this article lies in the fact that vegetarianism as a theoretical-practical approach towards life sustenance allows assessing and outlining the solutions to the environmental problems. Vegetarian food correlates with the ethical position, systemogenetics of law and morality, and religious attitudes. The interrelation between vegetarianism and ecology is reflected in ecophilic approach towards environment. The author leans on the general scientific theoretical methods, such as genetic, comparative, systemic, and factor analysis; and provides an overview of the thematic literature. The conclusion is made that vegetarianism can be considered an indicator of ecophilia-oriented collective consciousness. The philosophical conceptualization of the problem of vegetarianism is the problem of bioethics and environmental ethics, as well as eco-theology. The ethical outlook upon vegetarianism consists in comprehension of the value of life of the whole creation and biocentric regard to all animal organisms. The eco-theological approach is demonstrated on the example of the theory and practice of vegetarianism in Vedic culture.