zoocentryzm

Zoocentryzm is a term sometimes used to describe a worldview or philosophical stance that places animals at the center of consideration, akin to how anthropocentrism places humans at the center. It suggests that the interests, well-being, and moral standing of non-human animals should be prioritized over, or at least be as important as, those of humans. This perspective often arises from a deep concern for animal welfare and a critique of human dominion over other species.

Proponents of zoocentryzm may argue that animals possess consciousness, sentience, and the capacity to suffer, and therefore deserve moral consideration. They might point to the inherent value of animal life, independent of its usefulness to humans. This ethical framework can influence views on issues such as animal agriculture, animal experimentation, and habitat conservation. It challenges traditional hierarchies that place humans at the apex of the natural world.

The concept is distinct from simply advocating for animal rights, as it represents a more fundamental shift in perspective about the place of animals in the moral universe. While animal rights often focuses on specific rights animals should have, zoocentryzm can be seen as a broader philosophical orientation that re-evaluates the entire relationship between humans and other species, proposing a significant departure from anthropocentric assumptions that have long dominated Western thought.