The Ethical Argument For Veganism - 1685 Words

This essay analyzes the ethical argument for veganism through the lens of philosophy using Utilitarianism defined by John Stuart Mill, and Deontological ethics according to Immanuel Kant. Through the use of these theories, I will justify the moral worth and legitimacy of the animal welfare debate that is often used to promote a cruelty-free and vegan lifestyle by analyzing questions of animal sentience, the worth of an animal’s happiness, and the right humanity supposedly has to the lives of other living creatures. Utilitarianism and Deontological ethics will provide two philosophical insights into the reasoning of a life abstaining from harming animals. Veganism is a diet and lifestyle choice wherein the individual consumes no animal†¦show more content†¦Mill also states that an existence with the possibility of happiness must be â€Å"†¦to the greatest extent possible, secured to all mankind; and not to them only, but, so far as the nature of things admits, to the whole sentient creation (234)†. Utilitarianism not only focuses on the attainment of happiness, but the prevention of pain and unhappiness. (230) Utilitarianism is also divided into two sub-categories called Act Utilitarianism and Rule Utilitarianism. While these both agree with the core principle of Utilitarianism, they differ in their ideas of the utility of individual actions. Act Utilitarian theorists agree that every action we do should create the greatest utility, and the principle of utility should be used depending on individual cases. Rule Utilitarian theorists focus on the possibility of moral rules, and using these rules to judge the morality of actions. Utilitarianism is a theory that could potentially be used by animal rights activists to argue for the importance of animal welfare, because of the relative broad scope of the Utilitarian Doctrine. One could argue that because Utilitarians value happiness, the would value the happiness of all creatures. However, the question must be asked, because animals are sentient- should their emotions beShow MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Food On Food And The Processed Materials Essay1313 Words   |  6 Pagesroute of veganism. Due to religious reasons, people who honor Hinduism do no partake in eating meat. Others give up certain foods rich in animal fat due to their declining health, and some do not have access to expensive meats and animal products due to their financial status or location. These restrictions all have direct reasons that are tangible. Values and statistics of weight, money, blood pressure etc. alone could support the argument for these dietary restrictions. 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