Marvin Harris has shown that the Hindu taboo against eating beef ensures:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Marvin Harris argues that the Hindu taboo against eating beef is not a religious prohibition, but rather an adaptation to the ecological and economic conditions in India. Cows are sacred because they provide valuable resources, such as milk, fertilizer, and fuel in the form of dung. By not eating beef, cows can live longer and continue to provide these resources, which are essential for farming and daily life in rural areas. Therefore, the taboo ensures a large supply of cow dung that is a source of fertilizer and fuel. Marvin Harris argues that the Hindu taboo against eating beef ensures a large supply of cow dung, which is seen as a valuable source of fertilizer and fuel in India. This helps to sustain agriculture and the economy, making it a practical reason behind the taboo.

Marvin Harris Has Shown That the Hindu Taboo Against Eating