Beyond Speciesism: Animals, Ethics, and Non-Violence in Indian Philosophical Traditions

• Dr. Pankoj Kanti Sarkar

  Debra Thana Sahid Kshudiram Smriti Mahavidyalaya (Autonomous)

  Author

The ethical consideration of animals has emerged as a critical theme in both ancient and contemporary philosophy. While modern debates on animal rights have been shaped by critiques of speciesism advanced by Richard Ryder and Peter Singer, Indian philosophical traditions had long articulated a moral vision extending beyond human-centered frameworks. This paper examines the place of animals in Indian thought, focusing on Vedic, Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain perspectives. It highlights the centrality of ahiṃsā (non-violence) as a guiding principle and explores how doctrines of compassion, ecological balance, and reverence for life offer profound insights into human–animal relations. The study situates Indian traditions within global animal ethics, drawing comparisons with Western frameworks such as utilitarianism and rights-based theories. By analyzing classical texts, edicts, and philosophical discourses, the paper argues that Indian traditions anticipate many of the concerns articulated in contemporary animal ethics, while also offering a distinctive metaphysical grounding rooted in the interconnectedness of life. The findings suggest that integrating Indian perspectives into global debates enriches theoretical discourse on moral inclusion, environmental ethics, and interspecies justice.

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