Maybe this should belong in the "Medicine" thread

I saw footage of a Japanese ship this morning, killing a whale and pulling it onto this ship. Save the details, I wanted some more knowledge in this area.

OK I admit, I am downright loser and I teared watching it. But before I jump to conclude that it is all crap and get all emotional about it.....does anyone know why whales are being killed by these whalers ? To make medicine ? For what purpose ? What does it heal and why ? Serious question here....

OM MANI PEMME HUNG