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Why do some religious arguments give humans greater moral importance than animals?

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Three PETA protesters in animal masks and green clothing hold signs reading No Fur at a demonstration against fur in clothing at a shopping district in Seoul, South Korea. — Animal rights A PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) demonstration in Seoul, South Korea, against the use of animals for fur in clothing.

Some religious and philosophical traditions assign humans greater moral importance than animals based on the concept of a hierarchical universe, often referred to as the Great Chain of Being. This framework, which influenced Western thought for centuries, posits that beings are arranged by complexity and perfection, with humans occupying a superior position due to their unique capacity for rationality.1

In many Christian traditions, this hierarchy is supported by the belief that humans were created in the image of God, granting them a special commission of dominion over other creatures. Furthermore, theological distinctions regarding the soul often emphasize that while animals may possess sensitive souls capable of movement and memory, humans possess a uniquely rational and spiritual soul capable of salvation.23

While these arguments have historically justified human superiority, it is essential to affirm the ethical principle that all living beings deserve respect and compassion. Many traditions, such as Jainism and Buddhism, emphasize ahimsa (nonviolence) toward all life, challenging the notion that moral standing should be restricted to humans alone.43