An Analysis Of Animal Rights Activism

          Animal rights activists are well-known for their radical stances against treating animals as property, using them in scientific experiments, and consuming their flesh. Proponents of this position argue that we should not exploit animals for these purposes. Some even believe that animals should be granted the same rights as humans, thereby eliminating the distinction between man and beast. The reasoning is that using animals for our benefit results in their pain and suffering. However, modern animal rights activism is a house of cards.

          The fundamental issue with animal rights activism is that it is simply not workable. It is not a livable philosophy. If animal rights advocates were to achieve their goal of imposing this way of life on the rest of society, everything would come apart at the seams. Consider the following points: 1) Leather is made from animal skins, 2) A significant portion of our clothing is made from animal furs, and 3) Tires, shampoos, and toothpastes also contain animal ingredients. Adopting an animal rights mindset would require us to make drastic modifications to fundamental aspects of our lives, for which we are not prepared.

          If we were to endorse animal rights activism, what would we do with all the carnivorous animals? If we are merely animals ourselves, what objective basis would there be for not eating meat? If we were to join the animal rights movement, why not also establish a plant rights movement? If animals are to be treated the same as humans, they should also be held to our standards of punishment when they misbehave, which would cause them pain and suffering. Furthermore, it is ironic that many animal rights activists support abortion. So much for taking a stand for living creatures.

          It is important to recognize that animal rights activism often conflicts with cultural traditions and practices. Many indigenous communities rely on hunting and fishing for sustenance and cultural expression. Imposing animal rights activism on these communities would disregard their ways of life and force them to abandon practices integral to their survival for generations. Additionally, various religious rituals and ceremonies involve the use of animals, and banning such practices would infringe upon religious freedoms. Therefore, adopting an animal rights activist approach would not only disrupt the fabric of society but also undermine the diversity of cultural and religious practices that define human civilization.

          How are we supposed to treat animals? The answer depends on the moral principles we hold. Ethics always begins with an objective standard. Mankind was created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26-27). This is why Scripture prescribes the death penalty for murder. However, the consumption of plants and animals has been permitted by God. We have been called to exercise good stewardship over His creation, which includes animals. Animals should not be killed to the point of extinction or for our own enjoyment. They should not be treated cruelly. Animals cannot have rights because they are unable to make free choices and act with moral accountability.