Question

HLP PLEASE ITS DUE ASAP ( Philosophy of Animals ) Only if you know how to answer if your in college

Be sure to include an introduction. An introduction should do the following:
o Introduce the reader to the topic. That is, explain in general terms
what the topic is, what the issue(s) is(are), and why the reader should care
about it.
o Introduce the reader to what will be done in the essay: explain briefly what will be the
different parts of the essay, that is, provide a roadmap
• Make sure the structure of your paper matches the roadmap provided in the introduction
• Cite all sources using both in-text citations and a works cited page.

What are the main features that distinguish anthropocentric and non-anthropocentric
positions?
- What are one or two characteristics (like, recognizing intrinsic value to all living beings
or recognizing intrinsic value only to sentient beings, having a principle of noninterference etc…) that you believe a non-anthropocentric position should rather not
have?
Specify, for each of these characteristics, which non-anthropocentric position seen in
class does include this feature and why you believe it is a problematic one. Include
reference to the author and publication presenting/discussing this position.
- What are one or two characteristics (like, recognizing intrinsic value to all living beings
or recognizing intrinsic value only to sentient beings, having a principle of noninterference etc…) that you believe a non-anthropocentric position should have?
Specify, for each of these characteristics, which non-anthropocentric position seen in
class already does include this feature and why you believe it is a valuable one. Include
reference to the author and publication presenting/discussing this position.
- How do you apply your position, made of the rejection or endorsement of the features
discussed in your essay, with respect to other forms of life to everyday life?

Answer 1

Introduction:

The philosophy of animals is a field of study that explores the ethical and moral considerations regarding our treatment of animals. The debate between anthropocentric and non-anthropocentric positions has been ongoing for centuries. Anthropocentric positions hold that human beings are the only beings with intrinsic value and that animals exist solely for human use. Non-anthropocentric positions, on the other hand, reject this notion and argue that all beings, regardless of their species, have inherent value. This essay will examine the main features that distinguish these positions, discuss characteristics that a non-anthropocentric position should or should not have, and explore the application of these positions in everyday life.

Main features that distinguish anthropocentric and non-anthropocentric positions:

The primary feature that distinguishes anthropocentric and non-anthropocentric positions is the recognition of intrinsic value. Anthropocentric positions hold that only human beings have intrinsic value, while non-anthropocentric positions recognize the intrinsic value of all living beings. Another feature that distinguishes these positions is the recognition of moral agency. Anthropocentric positions hold that only human beings have moral agency, while non-anthropocentric positions argue that animals can also exhibit moral agency.

Characteristics that a non-anthropocentric position should rather not have:

One characteristic that a non-anthropocentric position should not have is the rejection of human exceptionalism. Singer argues that animals should be given equal consideration to humans, but this does not mean that humans are not exceptional in certain ways. Human beings possess unique abilities, such as complex language and cognitive abilities, which animals do not possess. The rejection of human exceptionalism can lead to unrealistic expectations of animals and undermine their welfare.

Another problematic characteristic of non-anthropocentric positions is the failure to recognize the importance of species conservation. Regan argues that all animals have inherent value, regardless of their species, but this can lead to the neglect of endangered species. While individual animals have inherent value, the conservation of species is also important for maintaining ecosystem stability.

Characteristics that a non-anthropocentric position should have:

One characteristic that a non-anthropocentric position should have is the recognition of the sentience of animals. Singer argues that animals have the ability to suffer, and therefore, should be given equal consideration in moral decision-making. Another characteristic is the recognition of the importance of animal welfare. Nussbaum argues that animals should be afforded basic rights, such as the right to be free from hunger and thirst, the right to freedom of movement, and the right to express normal behavior.

Application of non-anthropocentric positions in everyday life:

The rejection of anthropocentric positions and the adoption of non-anthropocentric positions can lead to changes in our everyday lives. For example, non-anthropocentric positions may lead individuals to adopt a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, as they reject the notion that animals exist solely for human use. It may also lead to changes in animal testing practices, as non-anthropocentric positions recognize the inherent value and sentience of animals. Additionally, the recognition of animal welfare may lead to changes in the treatment of animals in factory farming and other industries.

Works Cited:

Regan, Tom. The Case for Animal Rights. The University of California Press, 2004.

Singer, Peter. Animal Liberation: The Definitive Classic of the Animal Movement. Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2009.

Nussbaum, Martha C. Frontiers of Justice: Disability, Nationality, Species Membership. Belknap Press, 2007.

Step-by-step explanation: