Teaching Compassion: On Behalf of the Animals

Why do some people show compassion for select people, but not for others, or for humans, but not for animals? Are people who see non-human animals as not worthy of compassion guilty of speciesism – prejudice against non-human species? The aim of this book is to investigate why some people view animals as nothing more than food products or possessions while others see animals as our fellow earthlings, our friends, our family. Is the exploitation of animals so ingrained within human society that most people never consciously ponder the pain and suffering experienced by countless animals as well as the killing of so many innocent beings in slaughterhouses, research laboratories, pounds, and other institutions that deny rights to the other-than-human? Is our lack of compassion for animals systemic in nature or are we humans merely narcissistic regarding our own species’ rights, needs and desires? Are animals experiencing a holocaust not recognised as such by our species? This book shows that compassion for our fellow earthlings can be taught through both cognitive and emotional transitions. We all have the power to increase own sense of compassion, empathy, kindness, respect, and love to embrace all living beings. You will be taken on a journey towards a celebration of compassionate living!