English clergyman, theologian, educator, and writer (1772–1835)
Thomas Young (1772 – 11 November 1835) was an English Anglican clergyman, theologian, educator, and writer. Educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, he became a Fellow in 1795, and served as both a tutor and dean. Young was ordained as a deacon in 1801 and as a priest in 1802. In 1813, he was appointed Rector of Gilling East, Yorkshire, a position he held until his death.
Young was an early writer on animal welfare and rights. In 1798, he published "An Essay on Humanity to Animals", which presented theological and philosophical arguments against cruelty to animals. The essay emphasised the sentience of animals and argued for their humane treatment, advocating both for their welfare and recognition of their natural rights. Young combined moral reasoning with Christian teachings, asserting that humans have a duty to treat animals compassionately and to avoid unnecessary suffering.
Young additionally published several theological texts, including "Christ's Resurrection the Cause and Pattern of Ours" (1811), "Christian Righteousness: A Sermon" (1811), "Three Sermons on St. Paul's Doctrine" (1820), and "Seven Sermons on the Lord’s Prayer" (1827).
Biography.
Early life and education.
Thomas Young Jr. was born in 1772 in Dalston, Cumberland and was baptised on 29 December. His parents were Thomas Young Sr. and Rachel Bewley. Young attended Hawkshead Grammar School in Lancashire, where he was a contemporary of William Wordsworth. 
Young matriculated at Trinity College, Cambridge, in October 1789 as a sizar. At Cambridge, he distinguished himself academically, becoming a scholar in 1793 and earning his B.A. in 1794, where he ranked as the 12th Wrangler in the Mathematical Tripos. He later earned an M.A. in 1797. 
Academic career.
A Fellow of Trinity College from 1795, Young served as an Assistant Tutor from 1801 to 1811 and as a Tutor from 1811 to 1813. Additionally, he held the position of Senior Dean from 1806 to 1809.
Ecclesiastical career.
Young was ordained as a deacon on 31 May 1801 and as a priest on 13 June 1802 by George Pretyman (later Tomline), Bishop of Lincoln. In 1813, he was appointed Rector of Gilling East, Yorkshire, a position he held until his death.
Writing career.
"An Essay on Humanity to Animals".
Young presented a theological argument against animal cruelty in his 1798 work, "An Essay on Humanity to Animals". In the essay, he analyses nine key scriptural references, using them to condemn approximately 15 common forms of cruelty towards animals and to argue that God values animals and expects humans to show similar care. He asserts that animals are capable of experiencing both pleasure and pain. While Young criticises the mistreatment of animals in activities such as hunting and blood sports, he accepts the practice of scientific vivisection. He also expresses particular disapproval of clergy members who participate in blood sports.
Other theological works.
Young published several other theological texts, including "Christ's Resurrection the Cause and Pattern of Ours" (1811), "Christian Righteousness: A Sermon" (1811), "Three Sermons on St. Paul's Doctrine" (1820), and "Seven Sermons on the Lord’s Prayer" (1827).
Personal life and death.
Young married Mary Simpson Blamire on 15 August 1814. They had six sons and two daughters. His grandson was William Blamire Young.
Young died on 11 November 1835, aged 63. He was buried at Holy Cross Church, Gilling, and a memorial to him was installed inside.
References.
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