Industrial Agriculture & Eating Ethically
For this writing prompt, you will prepare an essay. In general, the prompt requires a 2–3-page essay (typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. font, 1-inch margins) to answer effectively.
PROMPT:
In The Ethics of What We Eat, Singer and Mason discuss the “conscientious omnivore” and the “best defense” for eating meat (an argument attributed to writers such as Michael Pollan). Briefly describe the main points of this argument and why it is claimed by some to be an ethically more acceptable case for animal agriculture.
In your view, does the model of the conscientious omnivore demonstrate respect for the lives of farm animals and the environment [refer specifically to at least two parts in a lecture from the animal agriculture module]? Why/why not?
Then, reiterate a strong animal rights position (i.e., like Tom Regan’s) and decide if the “best defense” would satisfy such a view. Why/why not?
Lastly, briefly reflect on the extent to which you found yourself persuaded by either the animal welfare or animal rights positions covered in this class or if you were at all (no wrong answers to this last part here).
