The true kindness of man can manifest in complete freedom and in all purity only with regard to those who represent no strength. The real moral test of humanity {the most radical, which is at a level such that it escapes our gaze}, it is its relationships with those who are at its mercy; animals. And it is here that the greatest rout of man has occurred, fundamental debacle from which all the others arise.
The essence of true kindness in humanity is revealed when individuals act freely and purely toward those who cannot assert any power or resistance. This kindness is most vividly tested through our relationships with vulnerable beings, like animals, who depend on us entirely. It poses a fundamental moral inquiry into how we treat those who are defenseless, serving as a reflection of our true ethical nature.
Milan Kundera suggests that humanity’s failures stem largely from its treatment of the most vulnerable. This moral downfall signifies a broader crisis in human character, from which many societal issues derive. Therefore, our consideration for animals acts as a lens through which our moral integrity can be assessed, revealing deep insights into our compassion and ethical responsibilities.
