By P Mohan Chandran
What makes us human? Is it our ability to feel a wide array of emotions, or is it our superior intellect that sets us apart? Or, perhaps, it's our capacity for empathy, our ability to comprehend the pain and joy of other beings? If that's the case, why do countless acts of cruelty against animals continue unabated, challenging our very notion of humanity?
The epidemic of animal cruelty has assumed alarming proportions, revealing a darker underbelly of our society. Pervasive and often unchecked, such cruelty manifests in various forms, ranging from outright physical abuse to the more insidious forms of neglect.
Psychological studies have suggested a sinister correlation between animal abuse and subsequent criminal behavior in humans. A chilling example comes from the notorious case of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, who mutilated animals as a child before progressing to his horrific acts of violence against humans. Dahmer's case amplifies the chilling echo: those who hurt animals may not stop there.
The thread of empathy that weaves through the fabric of our humanity often seems to fray when it comes to animals. Let's consider a hypothetical scenario. A man, in a rush, hits a stray dog with his car and drives off, leaving the animal writhing in pain. The incident might soon recede from the man's memory as he gets caught up in his comfortable life, oblivious to the suffering he caused.
Meanwhile, the dog, struck down in its prime, bears the brunt of the man's indifference. Its leg might be broken, or it could lose an eye, making survival a Herculean struggle. For the rest of its life, the dog endures the painful aftermath of that singular moment, a poignant reminder of humanity's thoughtless actions.
The allegory of the injured dog is not just about animal cruelty; it's also a mirror reflecting our actions towards our fellow humans. How often do we inflict emotional pain on others, causing deep scars that remain unseen and unhealed? Each cruel word or act, each thoughtless dismissal of another's feelings, is akin to hitting a stray dog and driving off, leaving behind a trail of suffering.
But we must remember that the essence of being human is not about causing pain but about mitigating it. It's about showing kindness, empathy, and compassion. Our humanity doesn't thrive in the realms of apathy and cruelty; it blossoms in acts of love and understanding, in offering a comforting hand to a suffering animal, and in soothing the unseen emotional wounds of those around us.
Therefore, let's pause and ask ourselves: Are we truly being human when we ignore the plight of animals or fellow humans? Can we call ourselves humane when our actions speak otherwise? The world isn't devoid of pain, but can't we lessen it instead of adding to it?
The next time you come across a suffering animal, remember the injured dog. The next time you are about to hurt someone, remember the pain you are capable of inflicting. Remember, your actions can change the world, for better or worse. So, what kind of world do you choose to create?
Do you think there is a need for a more stringent law on animal cruelty?
Yes, animal abusers should be severely punished
No, humans have a right to abuse animals.
© 2023. P Mohan Chandran. All Rights Reserved.
12062023
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