The concept of rights for animals is simple. The most basic right of a sentient being, whether they are human or any other animal, is the right to not be someone else's property. Being the property of another means that you are treated as a resource; your only value is that which your owner places on you.
When it comes to other animals, being the property of humans means that they can be tortured and killed in the name of profit – whether it is being imprisoned and mutilated on farms, exploited in zoos, circuses and rodeos or poisoned for a new detergent or mascara. The economic interests of the property owner always outweigh the interests of the property, even when this interest is to avoid suffering, to be free from exploitation or even, simply, to live.
As long as other animals are considered property both in law and mainstream opinion they will never be free from exploitation. Just as we oppose the exploitation of humans, Animal Rights Advocates Inc. opposes the exploitation of other animals. Whilst there is suffering and injustice in the world we will never be at peace.
Animal welfare seeks to regulate animal exploitation without challenging its existence. Animal rights seeks to abolish this exploitation. In this sense, animal rights is a radical position (from the latin for 'root' - meaning to go to the root of the problem). Animal rights is also inherently a non-violent position and can be considered an extension of the modern peace and social justice movements.
An Introduction to Animal Rights
A brief overview of the difference between animal welfare and animal rights approaches.
Whilst there are several proponents of animal rights theory, Gary L. Francione has been one whose clear and precise arguments have held much sway. We recommend those interested in animal rights theory familiarise themselves with Gary's work. You will find links to his books here. Following are various interviews that whilst some concepts are repeated cover an array of topics. Some are quite long so depending on your bandwidth it may be better to download them first before listening.
CIUT Radio Interview with Gary Francione - Animal Rights - Part 1
CIUT Radio Interview with Gary Francione - Animal Rights - Part 2
Welfarism, Abolitionism, and Veganism - Gary Francione
The Abolitionist Movement: Reason for Optimism - Gary Francione
Gary Francione Returns to Vegan Freak Radio - Part 1
Gary Francione Returns to Vegan Freak Radio- Part 2
Gary Francione Debate with Erik Marcus
Animal Liberation and Social Revolution
An exploration of the links between animal and human suffering.
This article was published in issue #3 of Animosity: Animal Rights Magazine.
