"Life is life - whether in a cat, or dog or man. There is no difference there between a cat or a man. The idea of difference is a human conception for man's own advantage"

Sri Aurobindo’s words reflect a profound recognition of the essential unity underlying all living beings. Rather than drawing sharp divisions between humans and animals, he urges an understanding of life as a universal presence, equally significant whether it animates a cat, a dog, or a person. The distinction commonly made between human and non-human life, he suggests, is not a reflection of any real, intrinsic difference, but rather a construction invented by humans for their own benefit. By pointing to the notion of “human conception,” he highlights the tendency of mankind to view itself as fundamentally separate and superior, often to justify dominion over other living creatures.

Such a perspective challenges anthropocentric attitudes: the belief that human life alone is valuable or paramount. When considering the intrinsic value of life, independent of species, it becomes clear that the boundaries people frequently establish are arbitrary. This egalitarian view encourages empathy and respect for all forms of life, suggesting that hierarchical thinking is merely a product of human self-interest and not a truth of nature.

Aurobindo’s philosophy invites a reassessment of ethical frameworks, especially regarding how animals are treated. If life is indeed the same force manifesting in different forms, ethical considerations must expand beyond the human sphere. By erasing imagined boundaries between species, a deeper sense of compassion and moral responsibility emerges, fostering greater harmony. The realization that there is “no difference” calls for humility, a reconsideration of human privilege, and an openness to the interconnectedness that binds all beings. Ultimately, Sri Aurobindo’s insight serves both as a critique of human-centric worldviews and as a guiding principle for more humane and conscientious living, rooted in the unifying presence of life itself.