The Invisible Particularity of the Secular

Adam H. Becker: Cries of discrimination have been raised in France over the decision by a private restaurant chain to serve only halal meat (i.e., ritually slaughtered and drained of most of its blood). Presumably someone thought it would be good for business, but now those who enjoy the savory taste of meat with blood are feeling left out. According to this logic, meat with blood is a mere commodity, a universal form of nourishment that anyone can consume and enjoy. Surely, all the restaurants without halal meat are not discriminating against Muslims. They’re just selling normal meat. Halal meat, however, is for Muslims only, exclusive, and discriminatory.