Xmas Dichotomy

There's a schizoid quality to our relationship with animals, in which
sentiment and brutality exist side by side. Half the dogs in America will
receive Christmas presents this year, yet few of us pause to consider the
miserable life of the pig – an animal easily as intelligent as a dog –
that becomes the Christmas ham.

• Michael Pollan, professor and writer (1955- )

The greatest of faults, I should say, is to be conscious of none.

• Thomas Carlyle, writer (1795-1881)