Question

The implications of the intrinsic rights view of animals is most similar to the implications of which of the following principles (in terms of how the principle applies to humans)?

A) Libertarianism
B) Egalitarianism
C) Utilitarianism
D) Contractarianism

Answer 1

The implications of the intrinsic rights view of animals align closely with Egalitarianism in the realm of human principles, as both philosophies champion the idea that all sentient beings, human or animal, deserve equal moral consideration and certain rights.

Step-by-step explanation:

The implications of the intrinsic rights view of animals are most similar to the implications of Egalitarianism when applying the principle to humans. The intrinsic rights view suggests that animals have rights simply by virtue of being sentient beings. This is analogous to egalitarian views which hold that all individuals should have equal status and moral worth, reflecting the value in a legitimate system of government. Like egalitarianism, which doesn't argue for identical treatment but for equal moral consideration, the intrinsic rights view posits that animals, regardless of their utility to humans, deserve protection and certain rights.

In contrast, Libertarianism focuses on individual freedoms and minimal restrictions on behavior unless it harms others directly, while Utilitarianism concerns itself with the greatest good for the greatest number, which might not necessarily recognize individual or animal rights. Contractarianism is about mutually agreed upon rules to prevent uncompensated harm, generally among rational beings, and does not inherently ascribe rights on the basis of intrinsic qualities.