A Declaration of Animal Dignity as Part of Human Dignity: With Author Melanie Challenger

2025-01-26

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We discuss the concept of animal dignity – two words that don’t often get put together; we typically only hear of human dignity, as if it means we are dignified precisely because we aren’t animals, yet we humans are part of the animal kingdom and not the only animal species who possesses a dignity that should be respected. In this special 55-minute podcast, host Carrie Freeman explores this novel ethical and legal concept with our guest, award-winning British author, philosopher, and animal advocate

We discuss the concept of animal dignity – two words that don’t often get put together; we typically only hear of human dignity, as if it means we are dignified precisely because we aren’t animals, yet we humans are part of the animal kingdom and not the only animal species who possesses a dignity that should be respected.

In this special 55-minute podcast, host Carrie Freeman explores this novel ethical and legal concept with our guest, award-winning British author, philosopher, and animal advocate Melanie Challenger who has a new edited book out on Animal Dignity and just worked on a project creating a Declaration of Animal Dignity, signed by hundreds of experts at animaldignity.info/ There is also a pledge there that supportive individuals and organizations can sign.

The discussion covers why dignity is foundational (as distinct from rights, sentience, consciousness); what dignity means for humans and how it could be applicable to nonhuman animal species, and in a way that does not cause dehumanization, especially when focused on supporting the flourishing, appreciation, and freedom of each animal species (and indeed each individual) based on what makes them unique and capable beings (think of dolphins, ravens, pigs, mice, lions, bees, etc.). This includes ways to avoid degrading the dignity of vulnerable beings, like many animal individuals under human control or care. Several examples feature Carrie's dog Elliott (a particularly dignified canine).

"In Tune to Nature" is a weekly radio show airing Wednesdays at 6:30pm Eastern Time on 89.3FM-Atlanta radio and streaming worldwide on wrfg.org (Radio Free Georgia, a nonprofit indie station). Hosted by me, Carrie Freeman, or Melody Paris. The show's website and action items can be found at https://wrfg.org/in-tune-to-nature/ Please support nonprofit indie media like our Radio Free Georgia station at https://wrfg.org/ Thank you!

Take care of yourself and others, including other animals, recognizing the dignity in each of us.

Photo Credit: The cover of Melanie Challenger's edited book "Animal Dignity: Philosophical Reflections on Non-Human Existence" (2023, Bloomsbury).

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