Absence Quote by Joan Dunayer
“Speciesism is a failure to empathize with those outside one's group. In general, speciesists simply disregard the myriad nonhumans whom humans intentionally hurt and kill. Who cares if millions of mice and rats are vivisected? They're 'only rodents'. What does it matter if billions of chickens live in misery until they die in pain and fear? They're 'just chickens'. They aren't human, so they don't count. Victimizers lack empathy for their victims, but absence of empathy doesn't justify victimization, whether the victims are human or nonhuman.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Speciesism and Its Discontents, Joan Dunayer, 2005
The quote argues that denying moral consideration to non‑human animals stems from a lack of empathy, equating species‑based exclusion with other forms of prejudice.
In simple terms: Speciesism shows empathy bias against non‑humans.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and extend empathy beyond humans.
Themes
ethics
animal rights
empathy
prejudice
moral philosophy
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
philosophical
activist
When to use this quote
- activism
- dietary choices
- policy advocacy
- education
- research ethics
Key Concepts
speciesism
moral inconsistency
anthropocentrism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we cultivate empathy for non‑humans in everyday life?
- What policies could reduce species‑based suffering?
A Different Perspective
Empathy alone may not change entrenched economic interests or cultural habits.
