Editors: Dr. Amritpal Kaur, Dr. Vinit Kumar Sharma, Dr. Dev Parbhakar, and Mr. Rishabh Tomar

ISBN: 978-81-999190-5-1

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/617

Date of Publication: February 23, 2026

Cite this book: Amritpal K, Vinit KS, Dev P and Rishabh T, (2026), Animal Laws in Tradition and Transition: A Sociocultural Perspective,  San International Scientific Publications, ISBN: 978-81-999190-5-1, DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/617

Preface

The relationship between humans and animals has evolved across centuries, shaped by religion, culture, economy, science, and law. From ancient philosophies that promoted compassion and non-violence towards animals to modern legal frameworks addressing animal welfare, the discourse surrounding animal rights and animal protection has undergone significant transformation. In contemporary society, the subject of animal law has gained increasing importance due to growing awareness about animal cruelty, environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and ethical responsibilities towards non-human life. This book, Animal Laws in Tradition and Transition: A Sociocultural Perspective, is an attempt to explore the intersection of law, society, culture, tradition, and modern legal developments relating to animals. The chapters in this book collectively examine historical foundations of animal protection, ethical dilemmas in scientific and commercial practices, cultural traditions associated with animals, consumer behavior, wildlife conservation, legal frameworks, and the role of advocacy and non-governmental organizations in shaping animal welfare laws. The book highlights how societal values, traditions, and economic practices influence legal developments related to animals and how the law continues to evolve in response to changing social attitudes.

The central theme of this book revolves around the idea that animal law is not merely a legal subject but a multidisciplinary field that connects law with sociology, ethics, religion, environmental studies, and public policy. Animal welfare issues today range from animal cruelty, animal sacrifice, and entertainment industries to biotechnology, wildlife conservation, urban animal management, and ethical consumerism. These issues require a balanced approach that considers tradition, culture, scientific advancement, and legal protection simultaneously.

This edited volume brings together contributions from scholars, researchers, and students who have examined animal welfare issues from different perspectives. The objective of this book is to create awareness, encourage academic discussion, and contribute to the growing field of animal law and animal welfare studies. It is hoped that this book will be useful for students, researchers, academicians, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the legal and sociocultural dimensions of animal protection.

Chapters and Authors