#Speciesism
Quotes about speciesism
Speciesism is a term that challenges the deeply ingrained belief systems that prioritize human needs and desires over those of other species. At its core, speciesism is the assumption of human superiority leading to the exploitation of animals. This concept invites us to question the ethical implications of our everyday choices, from the food we consume to the products we use. It encourages a shift in perspective, urging us to consider the intrinsic value of all living beings, regardless of their species.
People are drawn to quotes about speciesism because they often encapsulate profound reflections on empathy, justice, and equality. These quotes serve as powerful reminders of the interconnectedness of life and the moral responsibilities we hold as stewards of the planet. They inspire introspection and dialogue, challenging us to rethink our relationship with the animal kingdom and to advocate for a more compassionate world. In a society increasingly aware of environmental and ethical issues, quotes on speciesism resonate with those seeking to align their values with their actions, fostering a sense of unity and purpose in the quest for a more equitable coexistence.
Nothing more strongly arouses our disgust than cannibalism, yet we make the same impression on Buddhists and vegetarians, for we feed on babies, though not our own.
No group of humans has ever been held in as low regard or exploited on anything close to the same level as non-human beings have been throughout history and still are today. No group of humans has ever been systematically bred, raised, killed, and eaten. No group of humans has ever been born and raised in order for people to make basketballs, wallets, or boots out of their skin. No, there is no comparison. No group of humans has ever truly been “treated like animals”.
Females – sows and cows and hens and women – suffer because of their sex in Western patriarchal cultures, where female bodies are exploited as sex symbols, for reproduction, for breast milk, and/or for reproductive eggs. As such, farmed animals are at the very bottom of the contemporary, Western hierarchy of beings – and this is speceisism.
Human beings are a part of the animal kingdom, not apart from it. The separation of "us" and "them" creates a false picture and is responsible for much suffering. It is part of the in-group/out-group mentality that leads to human oppression of the weak by the strong as in ethic, religious, political, and social conflicts.
For most women (as for most men) links between sexism and speciesism are not readily apparent. We have been conditioned not to see exploitation. For example, men generally have no idea how patriarchy affects women—unless they go out of their way to learn. The same is true for women with regard to cows and pigs and chickens and turkeys.
Women and other animals are exploited for their reproductive abilities, and both are devalued as they age and wear out – when they are no longer able to reproduce.
Most consumers are unaware of the ongoing, intense suffering and billions of premature deaths that lurk behind mayonnaise and cream, cold cuts and egg sandwiches.
In Western patriarchal culture, both women and nonhuman nature have been devalued alongside their assumed opposites--men and civilization/culture.
A lack of concern about the plight of a “breeding” sow on a factory farm is also a result of normative systematic oppression – speciesism.