Read Chapter 12. Does reading this chapter make you less likely to buy leather and fur products, or not? Does reading this chapter make you more likely to go vegetarian in your food consumption (if you are not already), or not? Do you feel that the consumption of meat and the use of leather and fur are “natural” and therefore acceptable? Does an “ethical” company owe any duty to animals, or are ethical duties only owed to humans?
For this discussion assignment, we were asked to read about Animal rights and Corporate Social Responsibility. This reading did make me less likely to buy leather and fur products because it highlighted the inhumane treatment of animals in the fashion industry, which is something that I was not previously aware of. It is appalling to learn that animals are often kept in cramped, unsanitary conditions and subjected to cruel practices just to produce clothing items (Jimenez & Pulos, n.d.). As a result, I would feel guilty purchasing these products knowing the harm that has been inflicted on animals.
However, when speaking about food production and going vegetarian things become more complicated. Even though I understand that the treatment of animals in the meat industry can be similarly inhumane, I do not believe that eating meat is inherently unethical. Humans are biologically adapted to consume meat as part of a balanced diet. Our ancestors have been eating meat for millions of years, and it has played a crucial role in our evolution and development. Meat is also a valuable source of essential nutrients such as protein, iron, and vitamin B12, which are important for maintaining good health (NHS, 2021). A well-balanced diet that includes meat can provide these nutrients in a convenient and efficient way. At the same time, ethical considerations can also extend to the treatment of animals in the meat industry. While there may be cases of animal cruelty and mistreatment, there are also many examples of responsible and sustainable farming practices that prioritize animal welfare. By supporting these ethical farming practices, consumers can still enjoy meat while also contributing to a more humane and sustainable food system.
The consumption of meat and the use of leather and fur may be considered “natural” as humans have been doing so for centuries. However, this does not necessarily make them acceptable. We have evolved as a society and should strive to be more ethical in our treatment of animals. Animals should not be subjected to cruelty and suffering simply for our convenience or enjoyment. Furthermore, the leather and fur industries not only involve the killing of animals for their skins, but also cause deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, while the consumption of meat and the use of leather and fur may be seen as “natural”, it is important to consider the ethical and environmental implications of these practices.
The idea of what constitutes an “ethical” company can vary, but in general, ethical duties are not limited to humans. Many people believe that companies have a responsibility to consider the impact of their actions on the environment, including animals. For example, a company that uses animal products may have an ethical duty to ensure that the animals from which the products are sourced are treated humanely throughout their lives. Furthermore, some companies may choose to adopt ethical or sustainable practices as a way to reduce their impact on the environment and animals, even if they are not legally required to do so. To sum up, while ethical duties are often focused on humans, I believe that companies have a responsibility to consider the impact of their actions on animals and the environment.
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References
Jimenez G., Pulos E. (n.d.) Good Corporation, Bad Corporation: Corporate Social Responsibility in the Global Economy. Chapter 12. Retrieved from https://milnepublishing.geneseo.edu/good-corporation-bad-corporation/chapter/12-animal-rights-and-csr/
NHS. (July 13, 2021). Meat in your diet. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/meat-nutrition/