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Single Idea 4292

[from 'Animal Rights and Wrongs' by Roger Scruton, in 25. Social Practice / F. Life Issues / 6. Animal Rights ]

Full Idea

Too much concern for individual animals may in fact harm the species, by promoting diseased or degenerate members, or preventing population control.

Gist of Idea

Concern for one animal may harm the species, if the individual is part of a bigger problem

Source

Roger Scruton (Animal Rights and Wrongs [1996], p.87)

Book Reference

Scruton,Roger: 'Animal Rights and Wrongs' [Demos 1996], p.87


A Reaction

Okay till we reach human beings, where this principle won't go away, even if further principles about personhood, rationality and deep sympathy enter the picture. We can't be utilitarian about animals, and something else about humans.