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Animals Quote by R.D. Lawrence

“Humans, particularly those influenced by the Judeo-Christian ethic, see themselves as rulers of the earth, an attitude stemming not from divine doctrines, but rather from human interpretation of them. Those governed by such erroneous tenets look upon animals as chattels, organisms that have been…” quote by R.D. Lawrence
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““Humans, particularly those influenced by the Judeo-Christian ethic, see themselves as rulers of the earth, an attitude stemming not from divine doctrines, but rather from human interpretation of them. Those governed by such erroneous tenets look upon animals as chattels, organisms that have been divinely created for human use and convenience. But domestic animals are the work of man. The wolf and all other wild beings are the work of nature; they are PURE WILD, gloriously so. This is why a wolf can never be owned; it cannot be mastered.””

R.D. Lawrence

About This Quote

Source Essay: Human Dominion and Wild Nature, unknown source

Human religious interpretations falsely justify dominion over animals, while true wild beings remain untamable and beyond ownership.

In simple terms: Humans claim ownership based on belief, but wild nature cannot be owned.

Key Takeaway

Respect the autonomy of wild creatures.

Themes

ethics environment dominion

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

ethical environmental

When to use this quote

  • conservation policy
  • education
  • activism
  • personal ethics

Key Concepts

anthropocentrism wildness animal rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies shift from ownership to stewardship?
  • What responsibilities arise from recognizing wild autonomy?
A Different Perspective

Human cultures may resist relinquishing perceived control.

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