The Natural and the Normative
Lori Gruen
Abstract
This chapter examines a number of concepts that are used in arguments against taking animals seriously. The chapter explores how difficult it is to say what behaviors are natural and looks at the multiple meanings of "species" and "human" and "person." The chapter also discusses the problems with familiar hierarchies of worth and explores some of the tensions that have developed between animal liberation and disability activists.
Topics & Concepts
NormativeNatural (archaeology)EpistemologyEnvironmental ethicsSociologyNormative social influenceNon-humanPhilosophyHistoryArchaeologyEnvironmental Philosophy and Ethics