Many people hold traditional religious beliefs that humans are created “in the image of God” and that only humans have souls. Although I personally disagree with this view, some vegetarians and animal-rights advocates share it. They would point out that, whether or not animals have souls, they feel pain and suffering as we do and value their lives as we value ours. Many people who believe that only humans have souls nevertheless agree that it is wrong to cause animals death and suffering simply for the pleasure of the taste of meat.
It is possible to support animal rights while holding traditional religious beliefs about animals, but I would also argue that these beliefs are inadequate. For example, they suggest that only humans are created “in the image of God” because only people can make moral decisions, and that a soul must understand the difference between good and evil. Yet we now know that other animals can make moral decisions. In fact, sometimes they understand this better than we do.
Continue with these questions:
- What evidence is there that other animals can make moral decisions?
- Does the Bible say it is acceptable to kill animals for food?
- If God does not want us to eat meat, why did He put animals on Earth?
- Does the Bible say that humans have dominion over animals?
More answers: Vegan Ethics FAQ.