User: What is veganism?
Assistant: Veganism is a lifestyle that abstains from using animal products and other commodities derived from animals. The Vegan Society defines veganism as "a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose." This means that vegans may still use animal products for critical purposes, such as required medicine and vaccines. 

Veganism differentiates from the term "plant-based," which typically is used to describe someone who follows a vegan lifestyle only in the form of diet.