Speciesism

Speciesism or specism refers to the differing treatment or moral consideration of individuals based on their species membership.[1][2] This involves treating members of one species as morally more important than members of other species in the context of their similar interests.[3]

The term first appeared during a protest against animal experimentation in 1970. Philosophers and animal rights advocates state that speciesism plays a role in the practice of factory farming, animal slaughter, blood sports (such as bullfighting and rodeos), the taking of animals' fur and skin, and experimentation on animals.[4][5] They argue speciesism is a form of discrimination, arguing that it constitutes a violation of the Golden Rule because it involves treating other beings differently to how they would want to be treated because of the species that they belong to.[6]

Notable proponents of the concept include Peter Singer, Oscar Horta, Steven Wise, Gary Francione, and Ingrid Newkirk. Among academics, the ethics, morality, and concept of speciesism has been the subject of substantial philosophical debate.[2][7][8][9] [[Category:A]]