The Moral Status and Rights of Animals in Theravãda Buddhism

Abstract

This research aims to anlyzeabout concepts of the moral status and rights of animals in Theravada Buddhism and the approach on how to treat animals according to Theravada Buddhism. From the research, The study show that Theravada Buddhism has accepted animal have moral status and animal right. They are 1) Five Precept : the natural right that protects one’s life, the right to live and the lawful right is the right to protect animals according to the fi rst precept. For example the right for animals to have freedom, equality and protection according to the Buddhist morals. 2) Volitional Action : The animals’ moral rights. Those who perform a volitional action should get effect of their action. Buddhism opposes killing and animal abuse. The religion by proposes ‘Abstain from Killing’ precept, law of action to protect one’s life from exploitation as well as moral status and rights to animals.