Single Idea 4268

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / F. Life Issues / 6. Animal Rights]

Full Idea

It seems to me that the concept of intentionality introduces the first genuine claim of animals upon our sympathies and our moral concern.

Clarification

'Intentionality' is the capacity to think about things

Gist of Idea

Animals command our sympathy and moral concern initially because of their intentionality

Source

Roger Scruton (Animal Rights and Wrongs [1996], p.16)

Book Reference

Scruton,Roger: 'Animal Rights and Wrongs' [Demos 1996], p.16


A Reaction

Good. If one's approach to morality is Humean (via sympathy) this seems right. Utilitarianism bases animal rights on qualia (pleasures and pains).