Abstract
In
this paper, I critically develop the Jain concept of nonharm as a
feminist philosophical concept that calls for a change in our relation
to living beings, specifically to animals. I build on the work of
Josephine Donovan, Carol J. Adams, Jacques Derrida, Kelly Oliver, and
Lori Gruen to argue for a change from an ethic of care and dialogue to
an ethic of carefulness and nonpossession. I expand these discussions by
considering the Jain philosophy of nonharm (ahimsa) in relation to
feminist and other theories that advocate noneating of animals, "humane
killing," and "less harm." Finally, I propose that a feminist
appropriation of the Jain concept of nonharm helps us develop a feminist
ethic of nonharm to all living beings.
