Speciesism Interesting Essay Topic Ideas

Speciesism is a term used to refer to a form of discrimination based upon the species of an organism It is generally associated with human bias against non-human animals and is often linked to the belief that humans are a superior species. It is related to the concept of anthropocentrism, which is the idea that humanity is the most important species in the world. Supporters of speciesism argue that it is only natural for humans to distinguish themselves from other species and that humans have the right to exploit animals for their benefit. Essay topic 1: Explain the concept of speciesism and describe how it is manifest in human society. Speciesism is rooted in the belief that humans are a higher-level species than other living beings, and that our species has the right to dominate and exploit those of other species for our own benefit. The term was first coined in 1970 by Richard D. Ryder, the English philosopher and animal rights advocate. He argued that it was unjust to treat animals differently on the basis of species alone. In other words, speciesism is treating other species as if they have inferior value and worth as compared to humans. Speciesism is evident in many different aspects of human society. For example, most humans do not think twice before eating animals or using animal products, such as leather and wool, for clothing and other purposes. Also, animal testing is a prevalent practice in many industries, such as the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. In addition, many humans are ignorant or apathetic about animal-related issues, such as animal cruelty, animal exploitation, and animal conservation. Essay topic 2: Discuss five examples of speciesism that can be found in contemporary society. 1. Factory Farming: Factory farming is one of the most prevalent forms of speciesism in modern society. This method of farming involves the mass production of animals such as chickens, pigs, and cows in cramped, unnatural conditions. These animals are kept in cages and sheds, typically with no access to the outdoors, and they are fed a diet of low-quality feed. They are also subject to a variety of physical and mental health issues as a result of their confinement. 2. Animal Testing: Animal testing is a form of speciesism where animals are subjected to tests for scientific or commercial purposes. This practice is especially common in the cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and chemical industries. Animals used in these tests are typically subject to extreme physical and psychological distress, and the results are not always applicable to humans. 3. Trophy Hunting: Trophy hunting is a form of speciesism in which animals are killed for sport by wealthy hunters. This practice is especially popular among high-income individuals who view animals as trophies to boast about. Trophy hunting encourages the killing of rare and endangered species and has caused the extinction of numerous species in the last century. 4. Animal Entertainment: Animal entertainment such as circuses, amusement parks, and rodeos are forms of speciesism in which animals are forced to perform unnatural and uncomfortable tricks for human entertainment. These animals are typically deprived of a natural environment and are often kept in cages and restrained with chains. 5. Animal Abuse: Animal abuse is a form of speciesism that involves inflicting pain and suffering on animals. This can take the form of physical, psychological, or emotional abuse and can include harsh training, neglect, and torture. Animal abuse is especially prevalent in the pet industry and can have long-term physical and mental effects on the animal victims.