Prompt 9

Taylor argues for a life centered ethics approach to dealing with the environment and uses two concepts that do this: respect for nature and inherent worth. I agree with Taylor's argument for respect for nature. When one accepts a biocentric outlook on nature, it justifies the attitude for the respect of nature. This attitude is a moral obligation/commitment that people have to treat all living beings as having equal inherent worth. This position is one of a non-utilitarian position but it applies to all life and not just Humans. The last part of this position is the only thing that differ's from Regan's thoughts and beliefs on this issue.

We have to look at the differences that exists between humans and other organisms because at the end of the day we are different. However, it is important to also note the similarities because this allows us to be more empathetic and develop morals that will extend past humans in terms of treatment of others. For starters, we share a common origin with other life on earth. The process of evolution allowed for all of us to existence on earth, so understanding how animals came to exist on this planet, is also learning how we came into existence. We also share the inability to guarantee the condition of our existence. At any given moment, the human race could technically be wiped out whether by man made or natural disaster. I don't think we have the right to be so cavalier and whatever about the life of others on the planet even if those others are not human.

Lastly, humans are entirely dependent on the existence of animals. I would be lying and we would all be lying if we said otherwise. Although, it can be argued that vegetarians get by without depending on animals, there are a lot of people that don't fall under this category. These people are the ones who can't maintain a lifestyle that goes unaffected by other life. At the same time however, animals need to exist to keep the balance of nature in check so realistically, I don't really think there is one person alive (whether vegetarian or not) that is not dependent upon animal life in some form or capacity.

Response to: http://parenethical.com/phil149win12/prompt-09-why-it-matters/