Animal House

Rufus, an Airedale residing in Alaska, is pleased with his Master’s morals, since his Master does not have a proclivity for wokking dogs.  Neither do I, though I must admit to having eaten dog, both in the Philippines and on the outskirts of Hong Kong, and suffered no ill effects.  Don’t take it as a personal affront, Rufus, Iz didn’t.

Rufus’ expression of pleasure at his Master’s morals was was brought on by reading a paper, written by Harlan B. Miller, titled “Science, Ethics, and Moral Status." Rufus rates Miller’s paper as a “worthwhile read,” and I tend to agree, though I do not agree with all of Miller’s suppositions.  One specific example, is a statement that Miller makes in regards to human superiority.

"Nor is it possible to arrange animals on a single scala natura with humans clearly and safely at the top."

A statement I think is simply incorrect.  Does this then mean I would willingly and callously cause harm to another sentient animal.  No way.  I even let bugs out of my house, when they have arrived uninvited, rather than simply squashing them with a rolled up newspaper.  But when it comes eating sentient animals, I suffer no compunction what-so-ever.

Miller’s paper is an interesting, philosophical read.  The copy I printed has many passages underlined, emphatic “No’s” penned, and questions written to consider further.  Enjoy it yourself, if you so desire.

Posted by on 05/18 at 11:33 AM

Name:

Email:

Location:

URL:

Smileys

Remember my personal information

Notify me of follow-up comments?

Submit the word you see below:


Next entry: How Much is That Doggie in the Window?, Realistically

Previous entry: After Hours Movie Channel and Stuff

<< Back to main