I agree, humans caused the problem by domesticating and harvesting but that isn't the issue because most people I know primarily eat cow, pig or chicken (and fish).
In order for the self-regulation and balance by predation to again be effective the numbers would need to be significantly reduced.
Hunting permits/limits and fishing permits/limits are also humans attempting to control natural population numbers (culling).
We kill animals when they encroach on our habitat. Problem is, our habitats are getting larger as our population continues to expand.
You stop hunting deer, you will probably find venison in the grocery stores because venison is good to eat and if the populations are not culled, that meat is going to go to waste.
The fact is, humans are omnivorous. We have canine teeth and the ability to break down meat in our guts. We are hunters, our eyes are stereoscopic and front facing. Prey animals have eyes on the sides to watch for predators.
They don't have canine teeth and some can't metabolize meat in their gut.
Bacon and eggs is a sacrifice from the pig and a sacrificial contribution from the chicken. Thing is, neither one cares and if they did, we don't give them much choice do we?
Because WE ARE PREDATORS
Humans also have large brains and the ability to empathize. We've learned that we can choose to not be predatory and still survive, thrive, and coexist with other flesh and blood creatures with some semblance of humane behavior.
I agree.
We are at a point where we are not required to eat meat.
All thru my life and while my kids were growing I needed every dinner to have a meat entree.
Now that I am on my own, I am not so adamant about meat with my meals.
But, I do love a nice ribeye or pork chop.
I am not so dedicated to eating meat as I once was.
I have and do enjoy meatless meals from time to time now.
Not because I am against eating meat but more because my body requirements are different now than they were when I was working everyday.
I have nothing 'against' vegetarians I just don't buy the dogma most try to use to convince people of a change in diet.
Meat is part of many people's diets, they do just fine.
Yes, you can now get all the nutrients you need from other than meat sources.
You can also get those nutrients from a paste like substance that you ingest from a feeding tube.
People don't forego grocery stores in favor of a feeding tube either.
The bottom line is there is no argument.
We eat what we like.
You might like plants, I prefer steak.
Whatever floats your boat.