It is great that The New Republic , in an article called "Animal Spirits", has reviewed Wesley J. Smith's A Rat is a Pig is a Dog is a Boy, and even better that the reviewer credits Smith's reporting on the extremism of the animal rights movement. But the reviewer feels a need to condescend to Smith, upraiding him for failure to emphasize that a key demonstration of the exceptionalism of human beings is the understanding we have that humane care for animals is part of our stewardship of nature.
Reviewer Michael David suggests, "Though we have an obligation as the only moral creatures that care for the welfare of animals, Smith might also have discussed the inverse. Does mistreating animals diminish our humanity?"
The trouble is, Smith addressed this issue straight on right at the beginning of his book, even using almost the exact words--"diminishes our own humanity":
Writes Smith (on page 3), "I am very well aware that these positions--once nearly universally accepted--have, in recent years, become intensely controversial. Indeed, few issues generate such intense emotionalism or fervent support by its adherents as does "animal rights." Thus, I want to make it very clear at the outset--as I will throughout the book--that I love animals and like most people, I wince when I see them in pain. Moreover, I believe strongly that as enlightened people, we have a profound moral and ethical obligation to treat animals humanely and with proper respect--a core obligation of human exceptionalism--and by all means, to never cause them to suffer for frivolous reasons. I also strongly support laws against cruelty to animals and support strengthening them when appropriate. Indeed, I believe that animal abuse is a terrible wrong, not only because it causes the victimized animal to suffer, but also because cruelty to animals diminishes our own humanity."
Smith also praises the work of animal reform advocates such as Dr. Temple Grandin, who has helped promote more humane forms of animal slaughter.
Smith is all for "animal welfare." We all should be. He believes, however, and argues persuasively, that what has become "animal rights" is another critter altogether.
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