With the man/animal boundary so deep a part of the Western…
““With the man/animal boundary so deep a part of the Western psyche, it is little wonder that many resist its dismantling on both a logical and emotional level, and with great confusion manifest between the two. Man's ability to exploit the planet, to take of its resources as he needs, and to usurp entire forests and all living creatures therein, rests upon the unwritten assumption that the chasm between himself and all other creatures is impassable. All of modern man's activities operate from the premise that the planet is his to allot into countries, states, counties, and individual plots, because he, unlike other creatures, has been given the twin gifts of reason and expression. By assuming that other animals lack these gifts entirely, man obviates any need to listen to the wishes of the creatures with which he shares the planet. He can therefore proceed comfortably by his own lights, blind to information that is perceived as nonexistent.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Humans view themselves as separate from animals, justifying exploitation and ignoring animal perspectives, which limits ethical treatment of other species.
In simple terms: We see animals as different, so we exploit them.
Key Takeaway
Recognize shared sentience across species.
Themes
ethics
human‑animal relations
environment
philosophy
Mood
concerned
hopeful
Type
ethical
activist
When to use this quote
- wildlife conservation
- animal welfare policy
- environmental education
- personal diet choices
Key Concepts
anthropocentrism
cognitive bias
ecology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we bridge empathy between humans and animals?
- What policies could reduce exploitation?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑seated cultural beliefs is difficult and may meet resistance.