Maybe there are differences in definition and maybe it is much simpler.!. With human beings, we either feel empathy for a situation we too have endured or at least know someone who has, or we don't. With animals, we feel sympathy for a truly innocent creature generally suffering through No fault of their own. Christian faiths tells us Jesus Christ died for our sins to give humanity a clean slate or fresh start if you prefer. And what has humankind done with this fresh beginning: wallow in the worst of 'the seven deadly sins'. 1)Lust for those we have been deemed not worthy. 2)Gluttony when we gorge ourselves on ALL the UNNECESSARY extravagances we can acquire. 3)Greed = the bottom line our society exists on. 4)Sloth = how little can we possibly do (to feed our greed for more, more, more of anything and everything). 5)Wrath = wielding violence as a solution against any who disagree with 'our' point of view (AKA = WAR) 6)Envy for all the wonderful things and privileges 'everyone' around us seems to have. 7)Pride. The sin of angels; most notably, Lucifer. Thinking 'we' are better than others regardless of 'our' poor choices to do evil for evil's sake.!. So why do people matter less to other people than animals? Agree or disagree with me, just THINK!