Back when I hunted, I didn't view it as a sport, no more so than growing my own vegatables was a sport. I wanted to know where my meat was coming from. It was work, that had some sporting elements (like using a trad bow). But I know a lot of hunters viewed it as a sport, which was part of the culture about the entire experience that I didn't like.
Well put. Although I am not against hunting as a sport, I do not personally hunt for sport. I do not consider my impetus for hunting superior than those who hunt for their own entertainment (I am, of course, against poaching). I started hunting b/c I couldn't afford meat any other way.
On the other hand, I fish and I pretty much only catch and release. In essence, I only fish for my own entertainment. This, on my mind, is ethically equivalent to those who hunt for pleasure. And yes, the animal is not killed--but I think the logic is about the same.
So, you spent $$$ for a tank of gas, a gun, ammo, licenses, those cool looking technicolor vests, etc...because you couldn't afford chicken at .99/lb?
Bwahhhh!
You po black chilluns sho kno howda make up dat shit talk....
Your version of hunting is pretty different than mine. I was given my first gun, I caught a ride with my hunting buddies, I didn't and don't dress up beyond the regulation $2.99 orange overvest, paid the $48 Idaho license fee and bought a $15 box of ammo and had meat for myself, my man, and my random guests for a year. My meat was clean and butchered by me in my clean kitchen. I stored it in a chest freezer I bought used for $25. And I know that the animal lived well and died quickly (b/c believe it or not, I actually like animals and don't want them to live in feed lots).
I know I will never change anyone's mind about hunting with my logic and my feelings behind my actions. But I do think it is important to discuss it--especially with people who "embrace diversity" and all that shit (that may not be you, but I'm just saying...). Different strokes for different folks.
You also won't change anyone's mind about not being able to afford meat...which is as cheap as dirt.
You hunt because you want to, not for economic reasons. Which is fine...but your trying to bullshit us about your 'rural poverty/hunter gatherer' upbringing is a bit hard to swallow.
One of the best movies in the whole wide world is Deer Hunter.