How Attitudes To Animals Affect Society

 

How Attitudes To Animals Affect Society

The world's divided by people with different perspectives about the animal kingdom.  And contrary to some beliefs, it doesn't mean a non-animal lover is detached or heartless.  Some individuals and communities are not wild about animals because they believe:

• They're only here to serve us
• They can't feel pain or joy
• They don't have a personality or soul
• There are far more critical issues to worry about
• They're filthy and inferior

Whatever our beliefs, animals exist for a reason, just like people, and everything in nature has a purpose. 

So the question is: 'What's the purpose of animals?'

Many believe it's the same as humans - that is, to stay alive, avoid pain and be happy. Others think animals are here solely as slaves. Some even argue they serve no purpose whatsoever, although:

• Worldwide, animals fertilise the soil, pollinate plants and control pests that devour our crops (humans face starvation without animals).
• They provide us with pleasure, labour, assistance and therapeutic benefits.
• Every animal plays a vital role in balancing ecosystems that sustain all life on Earth.

Depending on attitudes, animals evoke strong passion on both sides. So what is it about them that scrapes society's raw nerve?

Does harming animals hurt us?

As the world's consciousness grows, so does the determination of those with entrenched views.  Whilst many people seek the liberation of animals, others demand the freedom to abuse them.

Indeed, despite global disgust, many cultures cling to their right to brutalise vulnerable beings.  Moreover, they defend their behaviour through legal entitlement, tradition and even State-sanctioned savagery. 

For example, some consider Bull Murdering (aka bull 'fighting') a brave and noble occupation.  However, in reality, most of the world's population think it's barbaric. 

And talking of sadistic cowards, trophy hunters are the epitome of obscenity according to public opinion.  A recent poll in the UK found that 9 out of 10 people backed a ban on sick trophy souvenirs entering Britain.  Yet, despite a global backlash, this bloodthirsty industry desperately hangs on. So, since it's legal at the moment, should people just mind their own business?  

No, and here's why…

Not only do trophy hunters threaten endangered animals and human decency, but they're also harming the next generation.

                            

We should all worry when their kids' witness or participate in violence against animals, especially when posing beside a corpse.  Although it's excused as a rite of passage, society deems it abnormal (or else it would be in every school curriculum).

Besides that…

Normalising cruelty in front of children can cause them to suffer psychological trauma.  As a result, they're liable to gain violent tendencies and lose empathy for victims (both animals and humans alike).

Changing hearts and minds

Concern for animals (and the environment) has swelled globally.  Despite a planet torn by conflict, people unite through compassion for fellow beings.  Indeed, due to public pressure, Governments worldwide are improving animal welfare laws. 

If you think about it, caring for animals not only enhances a Countrys' reputation but also suggests they treat their citizens equally well.  On the world stage, that's bound to impress the global audience.

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
― Mahatma Gandhi

So, essentially, animal welfare lies deep in the heart of humanity.  And what's more, I believe most human beings are inherently kind.  What makes me think that?

People often say that even if they don't like animals, they would never harm them.  And, most people will tell you bluntly that they can't abide animal cruelty.

But here's what truly convinces me...

As you probably know, spiders are one of the world's biggest fears (despite their vital role).  Unfortunately, this terror is spread mainly by prejudice and panic.

Over the years, I've helped many children and adults to conquer their phobias.  

    

Besides admiring their courage, I marvelled at how many said, even though they hated spiders, they never killed them.  Deep down, this confirms we're a caring species with a moral compass. 

And, if you want more proof, ponder how much we spend on our feathered friends... 

In the UK alone, we pay between £200 – £300 million every year just for birdseed!  In the USA, 52 million people spend about $2.5 BILLION.

Then there's the animal appeals that swamp our screens, the burley firemen rescuing animals in distress, or the public's sympathy for a stranded whale.  And don't forget that in most belief systems, utopia means wild animals basking peacefully at man's merciful feet. 

Indeed, as I write this, the UK government is debating animal sentience and the need for more protection.  So, overall, global opinion is shifting since more people demand better animal treatment. 

For once, I'm happy that nations are engaged in battle.  People are fighting against unnecessary cruelty…  This time the winners will be our fellow creatures, and of course, humanity itself.

To summarise, animal welfare profoundly affects human society's conscience and morality.