Ep 3. Wayne Pacelle
- August 21, 2016
In Super Soul Sunday season 9 episode 3, host Oprah Winfrey interviews Wayne Pacelle, the former president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States. Pacelle is an animal rights activist, lobbyist, and author, known for his work in the field of animal welfare.
The episode begins with Winfrey and Pacelle discussing the power of empathy and how it can be applied to all aspects of life, including our relationships with animals. Pacelle describes how true empathy involves putting ourselves in the shoes of others and understanding their perspectives, something that is often missing in our society today.
The conversation then turns to Pacelle's work with the Humane Society and his efforts to improve the lives of animals through lobbying and advocacy. Pacelle describes some of the challenges he faced in this work, including opposition from industries like factory farming and animal testing. He also shares some of the victories he achieved, such as passing laws to ban cruel practices like dogfighting and cockfighting.
Throughout the episode, Winfrey and Pacelle discuss the ethical implications of using animals for food, clothing, and entertainment. Pacelle argues that animals deserve the same basic rights as humans, including the right to be free from suffering and exploitation. He calls for a shift towards more humane and sustainable practices in industries like agriculture and fashion, and shares some examples of companies that are already making these changes.
Towards the end of the episode, Winfrey and Pacelle discuss the role of spirituality in their work. Pacelle describes how his own faith informs his passion for animal rights and his belief in the interconnectedness of all beings. He also shares some of his favorite quotes and teachings from spiritual leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.
Overall, Super Soul Sunday season 9 episode 3 is a thought-provoking and inspiring conversation about the importance of empathy, compassion, and social justice – both for humans and for animals. The episode offers a powerful message about the interconnectedness of all life and the responsibility we have to create a more just and equitable world for all beings.
