Animalism in George Orwell’s Animal Farm represents a set of ideologies and principles that advocate for equality and freedom among all animals. At its core, Animalism is a reflection of the push against human oppression, promoting the idea that animals should overthrow their human rulers and establish a society where they can govern themselves.
The philosophy is based on the belief that all animals are equal and should work together for the common good. This is encapsulated in the Seven Commandments that form the foundation of Animalism, which emphasize unity, collective effort, and mutual respect. However, as the story progresses, the principles of Animalism are manipulated and distorted by the pigs, particularly Napoleon, who positions himself as the leader. This shift illustrates how power can corrupt ideals, leading to inequality and tyranny, which ultimately betrays the original ethos of Animalism.
In summary, Animalism serves as a critique of totalitarianism and a warning about the dangers of losing sight of the original beliefs in the face of power struggles. It symbolizes not just a political ideology but also a broader commentary on human nature and governance.