Religion & Animal Rights Flashcards
How are humans and animals different?
- We eat animals, but kill animals which eat humans
- We make animals do dangerous things instead of humans, such as training mine-laying dolphins
- Humans seem to behave less on instinct opposed to animals
- Our means of communication is more complex
- Some religions believe God have humans ‘dominion’ over animals, interpreted sometimes as ‘do as you like’
How are humans and animals similar?
- Both are sentient beings
- Most religions state to treat animals with respect
- Buddhism states they are equal in the cycle of rebirth
- Both can communicate in some way
How can animals be used?
•As pets- Guild dogs can help handicapped people who are blind or deaf, and pets provide companionship and more.
•Transport and work- Humans have always used animals for work, including to find contraband, to catch fish, and for transport
•Farming- Farming is the business of agriculture. Nearly all the food we eat has come from farms.
•Sport- Bullfighting and hunting
Also, Experimentation and in Zoos
What are some issues around the use of animals?
- As pets- Some less common pets such as snakes are being taken out of their natural environment.
- Transport and work- Working animals are often mistreated, living a life of suffering.
- Farming- Animals are treated as products, and they are often drugged and forced to breed at unnatural rates.
- Sport- Bullfighting and hunting are cruel, and the animals suffer.
- Experimentation- It is cruel, although in most cases it is believed to be for the greater good.
- Zoos- Animals are not in their natural environment, and are often caged overnight.
What does Buddhism teach about the use and abuse of animals?
•Buddhism- Buddhism teaches compassion and non-violence (ahimsa). Intention is also important, meaning it should be compassionate if necessary. All living creatures are part of the cycle of rebirth, meaning that it is important to show respect to all life.
“As long as sentient beings suffer, I will be there to help as much as I can” (Bodhisattva’s Vow)
“To not hurt other sentient beings” (First Precept)
Right Livelihood includes not having a job that does not exploit animals
“All living things fear being put to death. Putting oneself in the place of another, let no one kill not cause another to kill” (Dhammapadda)
In some of his many lifetimes, the Buddha gave up his life to help animals.
Why do Muslims eat Halal meat, and what is it?
Muslims only eat halal meat, which is killed in a humane way “In the name of Allah, the merciful, the compassionate”. Neither Muslims or Jews eat pigs. The Qur’an teaches that carrion, blood and pork are forbidden.
Why do Jews follow Kosher laws, and what is it?
Kosher are dietary laws which are followed by Jews. It states that they may eat any animal with a split hoof completely divided and chews the cud, and fish with fins and scales. It also says not to mix dairy and meat foods.
What does Christianity teach about the use and abuse of animals?
Christians believe that God gave humans stewardship over the world and all in it. This gives them licence to use it as they wish, bearing in mind that God wants them to look after the world, and will expect it back in good condition for Judgement Day.
“Scientists must abandon laboratories and factories of death” (Pope John Paul II)
“Animals are part of God’s creation and as such deserve respect and protection” (St Francis of Assisi)
Jesus said that God cares about even the sparrows.
“The earth and everything in it is the Lord’s” (The Bible)
