In "Eating Animals," Jonathan Safran Foer discusses the concept of anthropocentrism, which positions humans at the pinnacle of evolution. This worldview suggests that humans are the standard by which all other life forms are measured, granting us the belief that we own and possess all living beings. This perspective influences how humanity interacts with animals and the environment, often leading to exploitation and disregard for the intrinsic value of other species.

Foer critiques this mindset, highlighting the ethical implications of treating animals as inferior and merely resources for human consumption. He encourages readers to reflect on the morality of their choices regarding food and the impact of those choices on the planet and its inhabitants, advocating for a shift towards a more compassionate and sustainable relationship with other living beings.