Analysis Of Human Dignity

What kind of nature is it that allows the thought that human beings are owed some special kind of privileges and kind of treatment? In his essay “ Human dignity” Francis Fukuyama examines what sets humans apart from other species. What Fukuyama believes makes humans special is often referred to as “Factor X”; something that no other species has. Some qualities of Factor X are individual characteristics such as skin color, looks, or social class. Other components of Factor X relate to the mental capacities of humans. The belief that everyone should be treated equally is a thought that many argue; regardless of our social norm, nonhuman species should be treated equally as well. There is really no specific advantage of one species over another.

Animals should be considered to have right to life, and freedom from suffering. Their living environments and their territories should be respected. They should be considered as equal creatures on this earth with equal rights. In those fundamental ways they should be treated like humans. To do less is to consider human beings to be somehow above all of creation, as if our rights are more important. Animals are animals, and humans are humans. However, we all live on this planet we call earth and are connected by a series of communities all around us.

Would clones or cyborgs be considered nonhuman? Fukuyama believes that a computer should not be considered human because they lack basic sensory input and feeling of a human. Fukuyama goes on to say “ It is perfectly possible to design a robot with heat sensors in it’s fingers, the robot could keep itself from being burned, but it would actually be devoid of the most important quality of a human being, feelings” (199). This quote reflects that reg...

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... so they can help their handlers reach any place they might want to go. Additionally a guide dog must use it’s common sense and natural instinct to disobey any command that would put the owner in danger. This ability is commonly known as selective disobedience. This example then brings up the argument whether nonhuman species have the characteristics needed in order to be considered legal.

The basis of legalization of nonhuman rights is found in many different areas in society. Darwinian believes human beings are part of a continuation of life and have no special status. He also states the need for animal rights, since animals can experience pain and suffering as well as humans. The rights of certain animals, in his view deserves greater respect than those of certain humans. Any living creature on this earth should be provided with basic rights. They have the right