Concerning Sharks: "But they're already dead."

Screenshot courtesy of Shark Lagoon 

This post is perhaps pertinent to a larger field (i.e. not just sharks)...

In a past post I talked about little things a single person can do to reduce shark finning. One thing I mentioned was declining a bowl of shark fin soup. I stand by that statement, if you are offered something like shark fin soup, bluefin tuna, or (hopefully this doesn't exist) a panda steak PLEASE decline it. This statement drives me crazy, "But they're already dead."

Do you understand why they are "already dead" (addressed to people who say things like this)? This concept will require a little economics. I'm sure you'll be able to follow. Now think back, supply and demand. Ringing some bells? Now how does a market economy determine what should be supplied? Think of the other word. Yes, the demand. So let's put it together: what is supplied, is determined by what is demanded. So. Apply this to shark fin soup (can basically be applied to any market), there is a supply of shark fin soup, yes? So, why is there a supply of it? There is DEMAND for it. Alright, now, when you say, "They're already dead," you are telling the market that you want shark fin soup. Yes, you are one person, now think of a million more 'yous' thinking the same thing. You know what that results in? A raise in supply, because there is a raise in demand.

In summary, "But they're already dead," has got to be the worst excuse out there.