All About Animals: Secondary Teachers: Lesson Plan 1: Animals, Diet and People

Teachers’ Note: This is a whole-class discussion about how people of different faiths view animals and how these beliefs may lead to dietary restrictions. Below are pointers for steering the discussion.

• Ask the class to summarise the views of animals held by at least two major religions.
• What value do the different religions place on a) the utility of animals and b) the lives of animals in and of themselves?
• Do any religious views about animals lead to specific dietary restrictions?
• If so, are these restrictions to benefit humans, animals, or both?
• Can religious people legitimately hold beliefs about ethical issues which they do not practise, such as living without causing harm to others?
• Can this lead to conflict within a) a person and b) a religion?
• How can these conflicts be resolved?