Why do we condemn stepping on bugs but embrace sport fishing?

[IanBlain]

Originally Posted by ColdAilment

Bugs are part of the ecosystem. It's pretty sadistic to revel in killing something and make a show out of it. Bugs pose no threat to you, they are trying to exist on this world same as we are, why kill them? Really makes me question the character of someone who enjoys killing, even if it is a bug.

Bugs are part of the ecosystem, true, but they also have a tendency to make every square foot of dry land on the planet their home. Bugs that manage to grab my attention get a new home at the tip of the green arrow.

More serious reply: I recognize that bugs don't ask to be stepped on or have their lives unceremoniously cut short. But as mindless as they are, bugs still capable of sensing and reacting to danger. That being said, I have to assume that they can perceive the pair of ominous, white, alien objects pictured above as dangerous when they make the mistake of crawling anywhere near my feet. Right? For bugs, being in constant danger is a package deal. Look how quickly a fly will move if you go to swat it with your hand. They have ways of escaping and avoiding danger.

Sadistic behavior is sometimes ascribed to those who step on bugs for the fun of it... but I would argue that it is a mischaracterization. Sometimes I just like experimenting with their reactions. When I plant my foot on an antmound to block their way in and out, I'm watching their reaction. To them I'm a menacing giant, but I'm rational enough to know that the ants that I purposely step on aren't capable of experiencing suffering -- a result which I have to believe is necessary in order to satisfy any potential/alleged reward someone gets from purposeful cruelty. Therefore I question your use of the word sadism.

However as I said, only a very tiny number of people have ever appeared genuinely annoyed when I go to step on a bug. Most girls love it when I step on a spider for them. Makes me feel like I'm doing my job!