Animal Rights Flashcards
How do most Christians see their role as humans?
They see their role in relation to the natural world not as ‘rulers’ to control and exploit it but as stewards with a responsibility to care for and respect god’s creation.
What do Christians believe about humans and animals as individuals?
Christians believe that mans are made in the image of god. They are the most important part of creation and god gave them control over all other living things. This is based on genesis which describes how god gave humans power over all living things - ‘stewardship’. Most Christians believe that animals do not have a soul and so cannot have the same relationship with god as humans. Therefore, some people believe that their lives have less importance than those of humans.
What did Jesus teach about living things? And what do Christians take from it?
Jesus taught that god cares about the smallest creatures and that not one sparrow will fall to the ground without god knowing about it. He stressed that humans are worth more than sparrows and that god knows every hair on their heads. Christians believe they should try to follow the example of a loving god, showing care and compassion.
What quote supports beliefs about the relationship between humans and animals?
“Let us make man in our image, in our likeness…” “…rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves on the ground”
How do most modern Christians see the relationship between humans and animals?
Hey believe the traditional views are outdated and now tend to view their role as stewards with a responsibility to car for gods creation rather than exploit it. We should treat animals with respect.
What do Christians believe about the use of animals in experiments?
Christians recognise that humans can benefit from experiments on animals. For example, animal experiments led directly to the development of dialysis machines to treat kidney failure and to the development of drugs to prevent rejection in organ transplants. Therefore, most Christians believe it is acceptable to use animals for medical research if it is essential for the good of humans.
What do Christians believe is wrong about the use of animals in experiments?
They stress that unnecessary suffering must be avoided as causing pain to animals would not be compatible with living according to the teachings of Jesus.
