Human suffering and animal oppression; a related condition?

A new University of Melbourne research initiative will put the spotlight on when human suffering and animal cruelty intersect. To be launched by former High Court Justice Michael Kirby on Friday March 15th, the Human Rights and Animal Ethics Research Network will explore why the mistreatment of humans and other animal often go hand-in-hand. Senior researcher Dr Siobhan O'Sullivan said human oppression of animals is thoroughly entwined with human oppression of other humans. "Throughout history, animal cruelty has been intimately related to the exploitation of the poor, women, the gay community and people of colour." Mr Kirby said it made perfect sense to study the two fields in concert. "Just as we sometimes turn a blind eye to suffering and abuse directed to human beings, we are all too often indifferent to suffering and abuse in other animals," he said. "We need to address these inconsistencies and improve our attitudes and our laws. This new network will help.