speciesism
|spe-cies-ism|
/ˈspiːʃiˌɪzəm/
discrimination based on species
Etymology
'speciesism' originates from English, specifically the word 'species' + the suffix '-ism', where 'species' meant 'a kind or sort' and the suffix '-ism' denotes 'doctrine, practice, or system'.
'speciesism' was coined in the late 20th century (credited to British psychologist Richard D. Ryder around 1970) and was popularized by philosopher Peter Singer in his 1975 book 'Animal Liberation', becoming established in discussions of animal ethics.
Initially used to label discrimination based on species, the term has retained that core meaning but has come to carry a broader moral critique of human-centered bias and practices that harm non-human animals.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
prejudice or discrimination against individuals solely on the basis of their species; giving lesser moral consideration to members of certain species (often non-human animals).
The philosopher argued that speciesism is morally analogous to racism and sexism.
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Noun 2
a term in animal ethics and political philosophy used to describe and criticize the belief or practice that human interests automatically trump the interests of other species.
In debates on animal rights, opponents often accuse industrial farming practices of speciesism.
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Last updated: 2025/11/30 00:30