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Veganism as a secular movement is a modern idea, as
a reaction to the exploitation of nature, including
imposing unnecessary suffering on non-human animals.
Although it can be seen as a minor and localised
reaction to the excesses of the developed world, the
principles behind it can be found in much older
ethical/religious doctrine of the East, such as
Hinduism, Buddhism or Jainism.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vegan