The term speciesism, created in 1970 by psychologist Richard D. Ryder, is defined by the discrimination of animals who do not belong to a specific species.
An anti-speciesist person expresses an interest in animal equality and therefore considers the interests and individuality of all beings. Most human beings can be considered speciesists, as they consider non-human beings to be inferior, putting them in a position that does not grant them any rights and, in addition, exploit them.
When we talk about the same species as ours, it becomes easier to be against and try to reduce prejudices such as classism, sexism and racism. And so, in human beings, we end up ignoring animals and becoming speciesists, without even thinking about it.
I believe that for our evolution and for a planet in harmony to be possible, a concern with prejudices must go beyond just those that surround a human species because, like us, animals feel pain and deserve to have a decent life.
When we look at the world through another animal’s eyes, we see that inside we’re all the same—and that we all deserve to live free from suffering,”
Joaquin Phoenix, who has been vegan since he was 3 years old.
The non-exploitation of animals is closely connected to how we treat Planet Earth in general, since the way we treat animals for consumption production attacks the planet in different ways.
By establishing an opening to understanding and thus allowing your mind to be aware of animal rights and the exploitation they receive, would you like to change the actions and choices that keep you speciesist?
Audiovisual tips to increase awareness:
Speciesism
Released by Mark Devries in 2013, this is a documentary that challenges the viewer to question their relationship with all animals, including the human species.
Earthlings
Released in 2005, “Earthlings” is a documentary written, directed, and produced by the American environmentalist Shaun Monson that shows how far humanity has come in terms of animal exploitation.
In the article on veganism, I tell you how I started my process of becoming a vegan.
WE ARE ALL ANIMALS
