In the article "All Animals are Equal" Singer argues that there should be equality or all animal. He blames species for bias and prejudice against some species in favor of others (Singer, 1974). Here, it is worth noting that Singer does not imply that all animal are equal or that all animal should be equal for equal consideration. For

Here, sentience also applies to animals and not just human beings. This being the case therefore, it is only morally right to consider their pleasure and pain. Because animals (a majority of animal if not all of them) are sentient creatures, Singer holds that they should also be given equal consideration as human beings. Singer also notes that this being the case, it is only right that such practices as animal testing and experimentation as well as other practices like factory farming of the different types of animal for meat be stopped because they are not justified. Although we cannot say that the animals are equal to man (in that they are unable to speak or vote etc) their being sentient creatures validates them being equally considered. Using an argument that equal rights are not required for equality (as is the case among human beings) Singer is successful in showing that all the sentient animal are deserving of same considerations as human beings. In the same way we would not want to see harm or suffering come to an individual with the lowest intelligence (IQ) an individual with the least strength or the shortest person among others, we, according to Singer, should also treat animals in the same way.

Here, it is worth noting that Singer takes the position of a utilitarian. Being a utilitarian, Singer hopes for the highest satisfaction (happiness) with no or minimized suffering. This is not only for human beings, but also for all sentient animals. For a utilitarian, the morally right thing to do (the right thing) is what results in the greatest happiness and with no or the least amount of pain or suffering. According to Singer, some of the practices like factory farming of animal and experimentation on animals are not worth it given that the harm and suffering of these sentient creatures outweighs the benefits obtained. By using the sentient argument, he shows why all animals are equal.

Sources:

Peter Singer (1974) All Animals Are Equal. New York University, singerp@gmail.com.

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