Which term means the human-held belief in superiority that justifies exploiting or mistreating other species?

• A. Speciesism
• B. Anthropocentrism
• C. Utilitarianism
• D. Environmentalism

Answer: (A)

Speciesism is the belief that humans are inherently superior to other species and that this superiority justifies exploiting or mistreating animals. This term is used to call out practices like animal testing, factory farming, and use in entertainment simply because non-human animals are not human. Anthropocentrism is a broader human-centered view of value, not necessarily a justification for mistreatment. Utilitarianism is a moral framework about maximizing overall welfare and can be applied to animals in various ways, but it isn’t defined by a belief in human superiority. Environmentalism focuses on protecting ecosystems rather than asserting such a hierarchy. So, the concept described is speciesism.