Introduction
Human attempts to control animals have caused them to suffer and be wounded throughout history. Our laws and daily conduct often disregard animal rights, implying a fundamental bias against animals. Due to this error, we now permit the use of animals in zoos and circuses for entertainment and food purposes.
Examining the moral ramifications of such actions is necessary. This essay argues that protecting animal rights is crucial and represents a significant shift in cultural norms. This could contribute to the development of a kinder, more just society.
Legal Views
When examining the issue of animal rights from a legal perspective, it becomes both significant and complicated. Legal systems that have been oriented toward people for ages are the cause of this intricacy. Kurki’s study examines the concept of “legal personhood” and its connection to animal rights (47). Animals do not typically have “legal personhood,” although non-human entities, such as businesses, occasionally do (Kurki 52).
This restricted policy disregarded the broader ecological context. Humans do not consider animals to be “legal persons,” so they are often allowed to mistreat and exploit them. We accidentally lose some of our humanity by valuing animal life too little. Animals are not legally protected, so people can hurt them without facing the consequences. Our legal systems must develop to accommodate all forms of life.
Philosophical Perspectives
Considering animal rights, philosophy also provides us with some crucial insights. Ladwig’s question, “Do animals have rights?” causes us to reexamine our fundamental principles of decency and respect for life. Furthermore, he thinks their value should determine how we treat animals (1). He contends that specific characteristics humans and animals share include the capacity for feeling and thought.
Our ability to empathize is increased when we recognize these similar characteristics. There should be fundamental rights due to these shared features (Ladwig 4). Therefore, it is wrong to continue denying animals these rights. Our commitment to justice is reaffirmed by respecting these rights.
Ethical Considerations
Animals are frequently used as entertainment and food in many countries. The ethical ramifications of this cultural practice must be examined closely. The treatment of animals in zoos and circuses has drawn criticism.
Ladwig condemns these locations because they frequently compromise the welfare of animals to amuse visitors (6). However, animal-free alternatives exist for obtaining food and having fun, demonstrating our potential for creativity and flexibility. This causes us to pause and consider whether these detrimental behaviors are necessary.
In addition to these ethical and legal considerations, defending animal rights increases animal welfare worldwide. The global impact highlights the widespread nature of the issue. According to Rault et al., positive animal welfare entails the absence of pain and the presence of positive experiences for animals (2).
They contend that upholding animal rights would lessen the suffering that animals endure due to the food and entertainment sectors (Rault et al. 3). Promoting this cause has the potential to redefine compassion and care. Therefore, upholding animal rights involves more than just treating each animal fairly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is crucial to respect and preserve animal rights. This award exemplifies the significant moral progress our civilization has made. When considering these legal, ethical, and welfare viewpoints, animals should be allowed to exist free from suffering and exploitation.
Accepting animal rights is not merely morally just; it also demonstrates that we are all members of the same human family. A kinder, fairer world must also be established through society and the law. By recognizing these rights, we can take a step toward righting historical wrongs and moving closer to a time when all animals are respected.
Works Cited
Kurki, Visa Anton Julius. “Legal Personhood and Animal Rights.” Journal of Animal Ethics, vol. 11, no. 1, University of Illinois Press. 2021, pp. 47–62. Web.
Ladwig, Bernd. “Do Animals Have Rights?” Animals, vol. 13, no. 7, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute. 2023, pp. 1-12. Web.
Rault, Jean-Loup, et al. “Positive Animal Welfare: Bridging the Gap or Raising Inequalities Worldwide?” Frontiers in Animal Science, vol. 3. 2022, pp. 1–7. Web.