What is 'speciesism' as defined by Peter Singer?

Speciesism is giving preference to our own species over another, even when there are no morally relevant differences.

According to the video, what is one argument used to justify treating animals differently than humans, and what is a counterargument to that justification?

One argument is that humans are more intelligent. A counterargument is that some humans have lower cognitive abilities than some animals, so intelligence isn't a consistent justification.

Carl Cohen argues that humans are justified in dominating animals because they are at the 'top.' What is the critique of this argument presented in the video?

The critique is that this argument is similar to the 'might makes right' justification used by slave owners, which is generally considered morally wrong.

The video discusses the argument from tradition as a justification for using animals. Explain this argument and why it is considered 'philosophically suspect'.

The argument from tradition suggests that because humans have always used animals, it is acceptable. It's suspect because tradition alone doesn't justify moral actions; slavery was also a tradition.

What does 'Equal Consideration of Interests' mean, according to Peter Singer, and how does it apply to the treatment of animals?

It means giving equal weight to identical interests, regardless of the being. All beings have an interest in avoiding pain, so we should consider animal suffering equally with human suffering.

Human and Wildlife Interactions

Grade 9th Grade · Science · 60 min

What's Included

Learning Objective

I can analyze the complex interactions between humans and wildlife in shared environments.

Warm-Up Video

CrashCourse · 9:47

Non-Human Animals: Crash Course Philosophy #42

Guided Notes

3 key concepts

1
Peter Singer uses the term speciesism to describe giving preference to our own species over another, even without morally relevant differences.
2
According to the principle of Equal Consideration of Interests, identical interests should be given equal weight, regardless of what type of being they occur in, such as the shared interest in avoiding pain.
3
Philosophers challenge individuals to be consistent with their beliefs and to justify their actions with reasons, especially when considering the treatment of non-human animals, rather than simply relying on tradition or convenience.

Practice Questions

12 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

Quick comprehension check

“Describe a complex interaction between humans and wildlife presented in the video, and explain the different perspectives involved.”

Complete Lesson Package

Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:

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Human and Wildlife Interactions

What's Included

Learning Objective

Warm-Up Video

Guided Notes

Practice Questions

Exit Ticket

Complete Lesson Package

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