Speciesist

A speciesist is someone who discriminates against or holds prejudice towards individuals based on their species membership. This prejudice often manifests as the belief that the interests of one's own species (typically humans) are superior to the interests of other species. Speciesism can involve the exploitation, abuse, or disregard for the well-being of non-human animals, often prioritizing human convenience, pleasure, or economic gain over the animals' welfare. It's a form of discrimination analogous to racism or sexism, though directed towards a different category.

Speciesist meaning with examples

• The factory farmer, valuing profits over animal suffering, could be accused of being speciesist. Their practices, designed to maximize production at any cost, demonstrate a clear disregard for the animals' quality of life, reflecting a speciesist worldview where animals are seen as mere resources.
• Many argue that the widespread practice of eating meat is a form of speciesism. By prioritizing human taste and dietary preferences over the animals' right to live and avoiding suffering, meat eaters often demonstrate a speciesist mindset in their daily choices.
• The animal testing industry faces criticism for its speciesist assumptions. Some consider the inherent belief that animal suffering is acceptable for human benefit, and that animals' lives are expendable, reveals deep-seated speciesism within the field.
• Speciesism is often seen in the debate surrounding animal rights. Those who believe that animals have inherent rights often criticize speciesist arguments that animals can be used and treated at human whim.
• Many see the view that all human lives are more valuable than any animal life as an example of speciesism. They may feel this justifies the denial of basic rights and consideration to non-human animals in countless situations.