The Sept. 29 editorial, Crossing the line ... Gruesome shock tactics subvert PETA's otherwise laudable goals
states that there is no rational justification for comparing human and animal suffering.
The editorial even goes so far as to call such a comparison an injustice. However, no reasons were cited as to why this comparison is irrational or unjust. The Post just seems to simply accept this as fact. Moral progress is achieved by questioning such facts.
Sadly, oppression of the defenseless by the powerful has been a common theme throughout history and typically justified by some superiority of the oppressors. More recently than we might care to admit, many would have found a similar comparison between white people and black people equally wrong.
Slaves were born and bred for use by others, just as farm animals are. Nevertheless, animals are sentient beings with interests of their own.
PETA seeks to expand our circle of compassion, which would undoubtedly result in a kinder, more just world. They are not suggesting that animals be treated as humans, but that they deserve equal consideration for equal interests, and that all sentient beings have an equal interest in not suffering.
We too are animals. Can we not understand their screams?
- Julia Caruk writes from South Windsor, Conn. Send her an e-mail at caruk@yahoo.com. 17
Archives
Letter to the Editor
