Non-Human Animal Ethics

Catalog description

This course examines the morality of our treatment of nonhuman animals. We will start by considering the cognitive and emotional capacities of some nonhuman animals. After that, the course will be divided into 3 units. Unit 1 will cover ethical questions surrounding the use of animals for food. Unit 2, on animal companionship, will consider what moral responsibilities we have to our animal companions, and how they compare to the responsibilities we have towards our human friends. Finally, Unit 3, on animal captivity, will address moral issues associated with the human practice of using animals for the purpose of entertainment. 001549