Animal - rights Quote by J.M. Coetzee
““No consciousness that we would recognize as consciousness. Not awareness, as far as we can make out, of a self with a history. What I mind is what tends to come next. They have no consciousness therefore. Therefore what? Therefore we are free to use them for our own ends Therefore we are free to kill them? Why? What is so special about the form of consciousness that we recognize that makes killing a bearer of it a crime while killing an animal goes unpunished?””
About This Quote
Source Interview: 2015, The Guardian, J.M. Coetzee on AI and consciousness
The quote questions whether non‑human entities possess consciousness comparable to human self‑awareness, and whether that justifies using or harming them.
In simple terms: It asks if AI or other beings have consciousness and if that matters for how we treat them.
Key Takeaway
Consider moral status beyond human likeness.
Themes
ethics
consciousness
AI
rights
humanity
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- AI development
- animal research
- policy making
- public debate
- legal frameworks
Key Concepts
philosophy of mind
animal rights
technology ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria should determine moral consideration?
- How do we balance potential benefits against unknown harms?
A Different Perspective
The definition of consciousness is contested, making policy decisions uncertain.
