Ahimsa Quote by Gary L. Francione
““We should not be surprised that more and more people feel comfortable about consuming animal products. After all, they are being assured by the “experts” that suffering is being decreased and they can buy “happy” meat, “free-range” eggs, etc.. These products even come with labels approved of by animal organizations. The animal welfare movement is actually encouraging the “compassionate” consumption of animal products. Animal welfare reforms do very little to increase the protection given to animal interests because of the economics involved: animals are property. They are things that have no intrinsic or moral value. This means that welfare standards, whether for animals used as foods, in experiments, or for any other purpose, will be low and linked to the level of welfare needed to exploit the animal in an economically efficient way for the particular purpose. Put simply, we generally protect animal interests only to the extent we get an economic benefit from doing so. The concept of “unnecessary” suffering is understood as that level of suffering that will frustrate the particular use. And that can be a great deal of suffering. Killing Animals and Making Animals Suffer | Animal Rights: The Abolitionist Approach””
About This Quote
Source Book: Animal Rights: The Abolitionist Approach, 2000
The argument claims animal welfare reforms are limited because animals are treated as property, so protections only exist when economically beneficial, allowing continued suffering.
In simple terms: Animal welfare is limited by economic interests.
Key Takeaway
Recognize economic motives behind animal welfare claims.
Themes
animal rights
economics
ethics
property law
activism
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
activist
When to use this quote
- policy advocacy
- consumer choices
- legislative lobbying
- educational campaigns
Key Concepts
property theory
instrumental value
moral consideration
economic incentives
Questions to Reflect On
- How do economic interests shape animal welfare policies?
- Can alternative economic models reduce animal suffering?
A Different Perspective
Economic incentives may shift, making reforms more effective.
