Animal rights is a philosophy and way of living that believes all animals are inherently valuable regardless of how useful they are to humans. It tells us that animals’ most basic interests – such as avoiding suffering and death – should be given the same consideration as that of humans.
This philosophy argues that animals should not be used for any reason because to do so is to ignore their fundamental right to life, liberty and freedom from harm. Importantly, this right should not be overridden by claims of necessity or ‘good’ welfare and should be respected regardless of how cute, intelligent, rare, interesting or friendly an animal is.
Alice Walker"The animals of the world exist for their own reasons. They were not made for humans any more than black people were made for white, or women created for men"
No. Animal welfare broadly refers to the feelings and physical wellbeing of an individual animal. On farms, for example, a sow confined to a farrowing crate may have poorer welfare than a sow who is able to nurse her babies and stretch her legs. But, regardless of good or bad welfare, both individuals have been reduced to the status of a product or resource for human benefit.
Animal rights tells us that the problem with animal exploitation is not how we use animals but that we use them at all. It acknowledges that the sow in our example is denied her freedom to choose.
In practice, animal welfare calls for bigger cages; animal rights says no animal should be in a cage to begin with.
A better world is possible – a world where animals are no longer harmed or exploited for human benefit. All animals, regardless of their species or relationship to humans, would benefit from the fundamental right to freedom, and this right would be recognised by the public and protected in law.
A world where animals live in peace and safety is possible. And it would be a better world for us all, because a kinder, fairer society that no longer marginalises vulnerable groups, that is grounded in kindness and respect, is a good thing for us too – and for generations to come.
Most of us want animals to be treated well and care for those we come into contact with, but we still need your help to reframe how animals are perceived by society.
Animal freedom begins with making small but powerful changes every day:
- Adopting a vegan diet
- Buying cruelty-free alternatives to your favourite products
- Boycotting entertainment venues that exploit live animals like zoos, aquariums and safari parks
- Never wearing or buying real fur, leather or wool
- Adopting animal companions instead of breeding or buying them
- Distributing our free campaign materials to friends and family and in your local area
- Using the hashtag #RightsNotWelfare on social media.
Take action for animal rights
Animal freedom is a step towards a kinder, fairer society for all. Take action today for a better tomorrow.