The Animals Issue
Moral Theory in Practice

Peter Carruthers explores a variety of moral theories, arguing that animals lack direct moral significance.

Peter Carruthers (Author)

9780521436892, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 24 September 1992

224 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1.3 cm, 0.29 kg

'A highly intelligent and philosophically probing discussion of our obligations to other animal species.' Stephen L. Darwall, University of Michigan

Do animals have moral rights? In contrast to the philosophical gurus of the animal rights movement, whose opinion has held moral sway in recent years, Peter Carruthers here claims that they do not. He explores a variety of moral theories, arguing that animals lack direct moral significance. This provocative but judiciously argued book will appeal to all those interested in animal rights, whatever their initial standpoint. It will also serve as a lively introduction to ethics, demonstrating why theoretical issues in ethics actually matter.

Preface
1. Moral argument and moral theory
2. Utilitarianism and contractualism
3. Utilitarianism and animal suffering
4. Utilitarianism and the harm of killing
5. Contractualism and animals
6. Animals and rational agency
7. Contractualism and character
8. Animals and conscious experience
Conclusion
Notes
Index.

Subject Areas: Ethics & moral philosophy [HPQ]