The human relationship with animals is deeply paradoxical. We categorize some as family members, others as food, and some as tools for scientific advancement. This inconsistent treatment has sparked a global debate on our moral obligations toward non-human sentient beings. The core of this debate lies in whether we should aim to treat animals better (welfare) or stop using them entirely (rights). II. Animal Welfare: The Pragmatic Approach
is grounded in the belief that humans have a right to use animals for food, research, and companionship, provided they are treated humanely. This perspective focuses on the "Five Freedoms," ensuring animals are free from hunger, discomfort, pain, fear, and the inability to express natural behaviors. In practice, welfare advocates push for stricter regulations in factory farming, better enrichment in zoos, and more stringent oversight in laboratories. The goal is to minimize suffering within existing human-centric systems. Animal rights The human relationship with animals is deeply paradoxical