2025/05/31 by Vanessa Letico, Reece Walters · 1 voice
Environmental Science · Social Sciences · #Geographies of human-animal interactions #Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses
paper · doi:10.1332/26352338y2025d000000040
openalex publication_date 2025/05/31 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/02
This article examines the hidden and often unaddressed harms inflicted upon cows within the intensive dairy farming industry, with a focus on prolonged suffering, particularly the sexual violence that is integral to the reproductive standard operating procedures of intensive dairy production. Drawing parallels between the suffering of cows and how similar acts, if committed against humans or animals situated higher in the sociocultural hierarchy, would be classified as heinous crimes, the article critiques the systemic violence normalised in animal agriculture. The research challenges existing legal frameworks that permit such practices against non-human animals, arguing that these animals are denied the same moral and legal consideration afforded to humans. In addition, the article introduces the concept of ‘voiceless victimology’, advocating for a critical examination of victims who, due to their lack of voice, depend on advocates to bring attention to their suffering. Through a methodological ‘replacement-reform’ innovation, our article seeks to develop an approach to better comprehend and measure the degree of speciesism embedded within the law. This work aims to spark a deeper, more critical dialogue about animal rights, species justice, the ethical implications of animal agriculture, and the urgent need for legal reforms to address the hidden injustices within the dairy industry.