Animals, Men and Morals

Animals, Men and Morals (paperback)

Animals, Men and Morals: An Inquiry into the Maltreatment of Non-humans (1971) is a seminal book in the field of animal rights. Edited by philosophers Stanley Godlovitch, Rosalind Godlovitch, and John Harris, the book is a compilation of essays by various authors that explore the moral considerations regarding the treatment of animals. It is often credited with helping to catalyze the modern animal rights movement.

Overview

Animals, Men and Morals challenges the traditional view that animals exist solely for the use and benefit of humans. The editors and contributors argue for the recognition of non-human animals as beings with interests and rights of their own. The book covers a range of topics, including the morality of animal experimentation, the ethics of meat consumption, and the legal implications of animal rights. It calls for a reevaluation of humanity's relationship with animals and advocates for significant changes in the way animals are treated in society.

Contributions

The book features essays from a diverse group of writers, including both philosophers and activists. Each essay provides a unique perspective on the ethical considerations surrounding human-animal interactions. Notable contributions include discussions on the inconsistency of pet lovers who eat meat, the scientific and moral objections to using animals in research, and the philosophical underpinnings of the animal liberation movement.

Impact

Upon its release, Animals, Men and Morals received attention from both the public and academic circles, sparking debates on animal rights and ethics. It played a crucial role in the development of animal ethics as a serious philosophical discipline and inspired many individuals, including Peter Singer, to explore and advocate for animal rights. Singer's own seminal work, Animal Liberation, is often seen as a direct continuation of the discussions initiated by Animals, Men and Morals.

Criticism

While the book has been praised for its pioneering role in the animal rights movement, it has also faced criticism. Some critics argue that the book's philosophical arguments against animal exploitation are too radical or impractical to implement. Others have pointed out that the essays vary in quality and coherence, reflecting the nascent state of animal ethics as a field of study at the time of the book's publication.

Legacy

Despite its controversies, Animals, Men and Morals remains an influential work in the animal rights and ethics literature. It is credited with helping to shift public and academic opinion towards a more empathetic and ethical consideration of animals. The book's impact is evident in the growth of animal rights as a global movement and the increasing academic interest in animal ethics.