Animal Suffering: An Invertebrate Perspective
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
2001 |
Authors: |
Jennifer A. Mather |
Publication/Journal: |
JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL WELFARE SCIENCE, |
Keywords: |
behavioral enrichment, cephalopods, environmental enrichment, invertebrate, welfare |
Abstract:
Consideration of the welfare of other animals often is anthropocentric, focusing usually on mammals similar to humans. This article argues the necessity of evaluating the extension of such consideration more widely to invertebrates. Although unlike humans, some groups such as cephalopod molluscs probably have the potential for pain and suffering. In addition, a morality of care, rather than one of rights, and the damage humans do to themselves by cruel treatment of animals both argue for the extension of consideration to all animal species. This consideration predicts extension of basic care of cephalopods from simple housing and feeding into areas such as behavioral enrichment.