The treatment of non-human animals has become a highly relevant and trending issue in contemporary society. Given the inherent complexity of our relationship with animals, it is crucial to inspect the impact of religious traditions, such as Christianity, on shaping this dynamic. On the one hand, animals are regarded as family members due to the affection we show and the shared living spaces, but on the other hand, they are exploited for human benefit.
The thesis investigates the relationship between people and non-human animals, particularly the ethical aspect of meat consumption in Christianity. By analyzing Jewish and Christian religious texts, the author examines anthropocentrism in Christian theology and analyses the effect on the treatment of nature and animals. Additionally, the author introduces the concept of killing, presents findings on early monastic perception regarding meat consumption, and highlights how this has evolved in modern times. Finally, the thesis aims to contribute to a wider field of research on the human-nature relationship, demonstrating that religious beliefs can shape ethical environmental practices and foster responsible stewardship of the planet.
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