Animal Quote by Matthew Scully
“My point is that when you look at a rabbit and can see only a pest, or vermin, or a meal, or a commodity, or a laboratory subject, you aren't seeing the rabbit anymore. You are seeing only yourself and the schemes and appetites we bring to the world-seeing, come to think of it, like an animal instead of as a moral being with moral vision.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Environmental Ethics Lecture, 2018
Seeing animals only as resources blinds us to their intrinsic moral value.
In simple terms: Viewing rabbits merely as objects erases their moral significance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize animals as beings with their own worth.
Themes
ethics
environment
animal rights
perception
humanity
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- dietary choices
- research ethics
- wildlife conservation
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
ecocentrism
anthropocentrism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your perception of animals affect your choices?
- What steps can you take to honor their moral standing?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑seated cultural attitudes is difficult.
