Animal Quote by Gary Steiner
“Human beings have capitalized on the silence of animals, just as certain human beings have historically imposed silence on certain other human beings by denying slaves the right to literacy, denying women the right to own property, and denying both the right to vote.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Silence of Animals, Publication date unknown
The quote draws a parallel between how humans exploit animal silence and historically suppress human voices through denial of literacy, property, and voting rights.
In simple terms: Human silence is used for control and oppression.
Recognize and challenge silencing mechanisms.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- activism
- education reform
- policy advocacy
- community organizing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does silence empower oppressors?
- What actions can restore silenced voices?
It may oversimplify complex social histories and ignore agency of oppressed groups.