Buddhists borrow many teachings from the Vedic culture (since the philosophy was developed within the vedic landscape). Consciousness is considered the irreduc

Buddhists borrow many teachings from the Vedic culture (since the philosophy was developed within the vedic landscape). Consciousness is considered the irreducible entity (Self) that acquires a temporary material body. In essence, consciousness is the same, regardless of the body. So, an ant's consciousness has just as much value as yours, which is why every being is seen with equal respect. Just because an individual happens to be experiencing reality through the body of an insect, it gives us no right to harm them and crush them for fun or any other reason. If the situation flips, we'd be the first ones to curse the ones hurting us.