It is far more important in the very young to attend to the formation of character than the impartation of knowledge, and instead of cramming the children with lessons only meant for the memory and the head, a due share of time should be given to subjects which interest the feelings and improve the heart. It is not merely for the sake of the lower animals that we say this, but for the highest advantages of the pupils. As the effects of cruelty are twofold—hurtful to the poor victims and hurtful to those who inflict the injury, so the effects of benevolence are twofold‚preventing suffering, and improving the hearts of those who show kindness.
Dr. James A. Macaulay, Plea for Mercy to Animals 1875
