Balancing Rights Among Humans and Animals

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Recommended: Tom Regan “The Radical Egalitarian Case for Animal Rights” summary

Dr. Tom Regan, an American philosopher who specializes in animal rights theory, said “To treat human beings in ways that do not honor their independent value is to violate the most basic of human rights: the right of each person to be treated with respect” (Regan). When it comes to what we deserve, ethics and fairness lie along the same line. To be fair is to be ethical and just. To be just means to look out for the common interests of all people and to impart the upmost levels of respect. When the topic of justice is mentioned it almost always relates to humans, but what about animals? Are animals on the same level or is there a distinction between man and animal. In his essay, several times, Arora asks the question “What do we deserve”? Wallace brought out in his essay that it is morally correct to consider what animals deserve. A fair system of ethics is necessary in order to ensure that the lives of all existing and living are not exploited because all deserve to live a valued life. The length of a life does not matter but rather the quality of life.
It is important to develop a certain level of respect for each individual life in a society which will promote a fair system of justice. It is commonly stated that it is imperative to treat others better then they treat you. There can be lasting benefits and results from treating others the way they deserve to be treated. Genuine respect for an individual will bypass any social or economic barriers. Respect and morals work well together. When we acknowledge the person before us, respectfully, whether we are the rule maker or the person abiding by the rules it is possible to establish equal opportunity. A main theme in Arora’s essay is that family status and wealth should not dete...

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... avoid following daily motions but reflect upon one’s status in all aspects of life.
To ensure a fair system of ethics, careful consider is necessary in order to improve the quality of life for each individual. This system can only come about if each person is determined to make the required changes. The most important thing an individual can do is to continue to reflect on their moral or ethically standing, and to seek ways in which to treat each other ethically. Often times a question of what is right or wrong can be answered if one considers the effect that it will have on another person. Society should strive to preserve humanity in seeking to think before acting and thinking about others. That point works hand in hand with respect. If we can respect one another, than it is possible to derive an ethical system where the needs of every individual comes first.

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