I know that market value is a repulsive accounting of…
““I know that market value is a repulsive accounting of somebody’s worth, and many of us would be unable to put a monetary value on the worth of our animal companions, but the pet industry is willing and able. And animals are cheap. Lee Edwards Benning’s 1976 book The Pet Profiteers called out the industry, and consumers, for what could only be viewed as irresponsible buying habits. We are impetuous and unknowledgeable and spend more time choosing a pair of shoes than a pet. The reason for this may be quite straightforward: we can afford to be impetuous because animals are cheap. We choose our shoes more carefully because they are considerably more expensive.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
We treat animals as cheap commodities, leading to careless purchasing, while we spend more care on expensive items like shoes.
In simple terms: Pets are cheap, so we buy them thoughtlessly.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the true value of animals before buying.
Themes
consumerism
animal welfare
ethical spending
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- pet ownership
- shopping habits
- budgeting
- ethical consumerism
Key Concepts
commodification
value perception
responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How does price influence our care for living beings?
- What steps can make pet buying more responsible?
A Different Perspective
Cheapness can mask ethical concerns and lead to neglect.