Full Idea
An animal has acquired individuality if the gift of a proper name seems appropriate, the high point being reached with animals such as dogs which actually respond to their own name.
Gist of Idea
An animal has individuality if it is nameable, and advanced animals can respond to their name
Source
Roger Scruton (Animal Rights and Wrongs [1996], p.39)
Book Reference
Scruton,Roger: 'Animal Rights and Wrongs' [Demos 1996], p.39
A Reaction
Interesting, even though it is rather chauvinistic. I might name the fleas in my circus, but regard a whole section of the human race as indistinguishable and not worth naming.