The Intersection Between Compassion to Humans and Animals: Why It Should Matter to Education

• In Event: Beyond Heinz: New Directions in Moral Research

Abstract

In this paper I discuss the intersection between the process of developing compassion to animals and to humans and why it should matter to educators and more specifically why it matters to science education. Findings presented here contribute to bridge the existing gap in the literature regarding the connection among compassion towards animals and humans. This is a complex process which involves several connections. I analyse the relevant literature and a study I carried out with 38 students. The study explored the development of compassion to animals within a science class and its’ connection to the development of compassion among students. This paper presents evidence which suggest that improving attitudes towards animals could impact positively our attitudes to humans.

Author

• Carolina Castano, Australian Catholic University