“We have enslaved the rest of the animal creation, and have treated our distant cousins in fur and feathers so badly that beyond doubt, if they were able to formulate a religion, they would depict the Devil in human form.” William Inge.
In the contours of human civilisation, the treatment of animals has long been a reflection of our moral evolution. The poignant observations made by playwright William Inge and the teachings of Jesus challenge us to introspect on our ethical responsibilities towards our non-human counterparts. Inge’s assertion that we have “enslaved the rest of the animal creation,” along with the sentiment expressed by Jesus—”I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,”—converge in an important discourse on empathy, ethics, and the nature of our relationship with animals.
The Historical Context
Historically, the relationship between humans and animals has oscillated between reverence and exploitation. From ancient societies that revered animals as sacred beings deserving of worship, to modern cultures that often view them as commodities or mere resources, our treatment of animals reflects our broader ethical frameworks. Inge’s stark comparison hints at an unsettling reality: if indeed animals possessed the capacity for abstract thought and belief, they would view humanity with mistrust, associating us with oppression and cruelty.
In many ancient cultures, animal sacrifice was not only a ritualistic act but often perceived as a way to appease deities or seek favour from the divine. The violent nature of these practices raises profound moral questions. Is the bloodshed of another being justifiable in the name of worship, or is it a representation of humanity’s disconnection from nature? Jesus’ call for mercy over sacrifice invites us to reconsider how we engage with the sentient beings who share our planet.
Empathy and Moral Consideration
Inge’s view sheds light on the fundamental disconnect between humans and animals. The enslavement he mentions points to a societal acceptance of dominance over other species. However, to frame our relationship solely in terms of power neglects the nuanced emotional and social lives of animals. Scientific advancements in ethology and animal cognition illustrate that many species possess complex emotional landscapes—empathy, grief, joy, and social bonds comparable to our own.
If animals have the capacity to feel pain, joy, and a range of emotions, then our ethical consideration ought to shift from a hierarchical view of life to a more compassionate lens. Recognising this shared emotionality can catalyse a reformation in our cultural attitudes. Jesus’ teachings reinforce the concept of mercy, urging us towards a more compassionate interaction with all living beings, including those we consider non-human.
The Call for Change
Both Inge and Jesus challenge us to reassess our moral obligations. The stark reality of animal suffering in industries such as factory farming, abattoirs, entertainment, and experimentation necessitates urgent reform. A shift toward more humane practices and an emphasis on cohabitation rather than domination can foster a healthier relationship between humans and animals.
Moreover, the growing global animal rights movement reflects an increasing consciousness about these issues. Advocates for animal welfare argue for legal protections, ethical treatment, and the recognition of the intrinsic rights of animals. These movements echo the call for mercy articulated by Jesus and extend it into the realm of policy and societal norms.
As we navigate the complexities of our coexistence with animals, Inge’s poignant observation and Jesus’ foundational teachings offer critical insights into our attitudes toward them. They implore us to foster a culture of empathy rather than exploitation—to envisage a world where mercy is prioritised over dominance. By re-examining our relationship with animals through these ethical lenses, we can move towards a future enriched by compassion, understanding, and mutual respect that transcends species boundaries. This journey not only enriches the lives of animals but also fundamentally elevates the human experience, grounding it in a deeper sense of interconnectedness within the web of life.
Worldwide Temple of Aurora 