Animal Liberation: The Definitive Classic of the Animal Movement

Peter Singer’s seminal work applies the principles of utilitarian ethics to the treatment of nonhuman animals, arguing that the capacity to suffer is the basis for moral consideration rather than species membership. Singer introduces the concept of speciesism, drawing a parallel to racism and sexism to critique the systematic exclusion of animals from moral concern. The text examines the industrialization of agriculture and the use of animals in scientific research, exposing the logical inconsistencies in justifications for their exploitation. By challenging the assumption that human interests inherently outweigh the interests of other sentient beings, the book serves as a foundational argument for expanding the circle of moral concern to include all animals capable of experiencing pain and pleasure.

Description adapted from Open Library ↗.