Waldau's meticulous study assesses the origins of the term “speciesism,” coined by Ryder in 1970, and explores the link between speciesism and slavery, colonization, and the oppression of women and children. Just as ethical discourse has been transformed throughout history regarding these issues, the author argues that as more information becomes available, human attitudes regarding animals will evolve. Based on scientific research, he asserts that a new morality will arise that acknowledges the inherent moral standing of animals and will overturn the long-held view that animals serve only one purpose: to serve humanity.