By Matthew Scully

Reviewed by Rachel Crowley, age 16


From the moment I saw this book offered for sale in Farm Sanctuary's quarterly newsletter I wanted to read it. In the Judeo-Christian ethic, the concept of "dominion" is used to excuse every variety of human cruelty. Few among us haven't had to argue over Genesis 1:28 - "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth." Even those of us who are not members of the faith will hear this verse come up when we talk about vegetarianism with others who are. This book amply counters that often-misapplied passage from the Bible.

Matthew Scully's book, Dominion explores just how humanity exercises its rule over the earth. In three of the chapters, he exposes the gross excess of Safari Club International, the bribery within the International Whaling Commission, and the Smithfield Corporation's complete disregard for the comfort and well being of their pigs. These serve as examples to support the rest of the book, which dissects theoretical arguments for the topics of animal suffering and rights. Scully considers theories and theorists on both sides of the issue, ranging from Steven Budiansky's "secular absolution" for cruelty all the way to Peter Singer's Animal Liberation. So many points are offered that this book deserves a second reading to take in all the information presented.

But, Scully points out, ultimately theories are only relevant in theory. What truly matters is kindness and mercy in action. The whole book aims to reform our attitudes towards animals, but the last chapter plainly urges lifestyle changes and offers sensible suggestions to help end their misery. Both practical and philosophical, Dominion is wonderful for anyone trying to further develop their own views. I would also recommend it for those kind-hearted meat-eaters who love their dogs and want to save the whales but are unsure about extending that compassion to the rest of the animal kingdom.

Matthew Scully's fascinating book reminds us that the command beginning with "rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth…" doesn't conclude "…with an iron fist."

Buy this book now!