What do you know about whaling? Why are whales
hunted?​

Whaling refers to the practice of hunting and killing whales for various purposes. Historically, whales have been hunted for their blubber, which is rich in oil and was used for lighting lamps and making soap. Additionally, whale meat and other whale products, such as whalebone and baleen, have been used for food, clothing, and various other consumer goods.

However, as human populations have grown and technology has advanced, the motives behind whaling have changed. Today, whales are primarily hunted for their meat and for cultural reasons in some countries, such as Japan, Norway, and Iceland. The demand for whale meat and other whale products has significantly decreased over the years due to concerns about conservation, animal welfare, and the availability of alternative resources.

To understand why whales are hunted, it is important to consider various factors. Economic reasons, such as the desire to profit from selling whale products, have played a role in the past. Additionally, cultural and traditional practices have kept whaling alive in certain communities. Some people argue that whaling is an important part of their cultural heritage and should be preserved.

However, there are also several arguments against whaling. Conservationists and environmentalists argue that whales are intelligent and majestic creatures that play a vital role in marine ecosystems. They believe that hunting and killing whales disrupts the delicate balance of oceanic ecosystems, and threatens the survival of certain whale species. Moreover, the methods used for hunting, such as harpoon guns and explosive harpoons, can cause immense suffering to the whales.

The International Whaling Commission (IWC) was established in 1946 to regulate whaling activities and promote the conservation of whale populations. In 1986, a moratorium on commercial whaling was introduced, effectively banning the hunting of whales for commercial purposes. Many countries have joined the moratorium and have ceased their whaling activities.

In conclusion, whaling involves the hunting and killing of whales for various reasons, including economic gain and cultural practices. However, the demand for whale products has significantly decreased over time, and concerns about conservation and animal welfare have prompted international efforts to regulate and reduce whaling activities. The debate over whaling continues to be a complex and contentious issue, with arguments from both sides centered around cultural heritage, economic benefits, environmental conservation, and animal welfare.