Descarte's Argumentative Analysis

“The greatest threat to people is ignorance. The greatest threat to animals is ignorant people.” This quote from an animal protection organization applies immensely to the ongoing relationship between animals and humans. Most people cannot imagine their lives without their pets, and treat them as if they are their own children. But where is the line drawn when it comes to which animals we should treat better than others? A cat is not considered a food source, but a cow is. A dog’s fur is not used as material for a boots, but one does not question the use of a sheep’s. Throughout history, arguments have been made regarding the treatment of animals. Most argue that animals feel emotion towards other things, but some philosophers did not agree

The philosophy of Descartes and Aristotle in regards to animals remains highly influential in modern times. One of the most influential and well known philosophers in history happened to be Aristotle. His thoughts ranged all the way from biology to music. He also took strong opinion on the relationship between man, and his fellow earth mate; animal. The Ancient Greek philosopher believed that animals were below humans because of the fact that humans use reason and language. For this, humans should be able to use animals without the same consideration that we would give to a neighbor. This created major controversy with the Book of Genesis; a testament of religion. It reads “God created all”. At the same time, it says, “and God said, let us make man in our image” (Fan,9/12). Man is the ruler over all, and shall give the word of command. These statements helped the people believe that they were superior to creatures, and could use them to fulfill

Many other rights movements circulating at the time such as women’s suffrage and anti-slavery which made it easier to shed a light on the wrong doings towards animals. The activists became the voice for animals everywhere, and argued that the animals had value separate from the usefulness to humans. These people consisted of suffragists who saw women being victimized in the same way that animals were, and humanists who felt the abuse was a crime against God’s creatures that he made. The trial of Bill Burns was the first recorded prosecution towards animal cruelty, taken place in 1838. A farmer was charged for putting too much weight onto his donkey which the Martin’s Act forbid. The act, passed 16 years before, stated that it was an offense for anyone to abuse, or beat their farm animals. This session in court became one of the most influential times in history for the safe treatment of animals. From this ruling, bull baiting was put to a stop for animals were put together in a ring to fight until death just for the sake of human pastime (Fan, 10/31). The “American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals” (ASPCA) was constructed in 1866, and still remains highly influential in today’s society. Commercials are put on air everyday informing families of how small animals are barely surviving due to maltreatment. Another national advocate