Knowledge Production and Animal Advocacy

Sor Juana wrote extensively, defending her right to study all subjects and produce knowledge despite institutional opposition. She understood that controlling knowledge—what can be studied, who can speak about it, what narratives dominate—is a form of power. This insight applies crucially to animal advocacy. For centuries, knowledge about animals has been produced primarily by those with interests in exploiting them. Western science historically denied animal sentience and emotion, conveniently justifying their use. Sor Juana's tradition calls us to engage in epistemic resistance: producing and defending knowledge that challenges dominant narratives about animals. Scientific research increasingly demonstrates animal consciousness, emotion, and social complexity—findings that threaten profitable industries. Following Sor Juana's example, advocates must insist on the right to produce and disseminate this knowledge, protecting researchers from industry pressure, and democratizing information so that accurate understanding of animals informs moral and policy decisions.