"Colin Spencer's Vegetarianism provides an in-depth look at meat abstention throughout the ages. Spanning the millennia, he discusses those who came to vegetarianism by choice, not necessity. He profiles vegetarian movements, such as Hinduism and Seventh Day Adventism. He looks at the different practices and philosophies underlying vegetarianism as well as a few of the prominent vegetarian advocates, including Pythagoras, Leonardo da Vinci, Gandhi, and Adolf Hitler." "No longer a fringe movement in the United States, vegetarianism currently claims 2.5 million Americans. Whether seeking a closer relationship with God, avoiding animal cruelty, or seeking to protect their own health and the environment, vegetarians are highly regarded and given unquestionable compassion in Spencer's sweeping history."--Jacket.