抄録
Our intuitions do not work well concerning non-human animals, and we continue to cause them enormous suffering. In the field of Animal Ethics, where we aren’t accustomed to thinking rationally, it cannot be expected that our intuitions lead us to good actions. With such background, this study focuses on “Two-Level Utilitarianism”, which provides appropriate guidance even in areas where intuitions fall short. The purpose of this study is to clarify the strengths and challenges of Gary E. Varner’s theory, a previous study, by critically examining it, thereby laying the groundwork for the construction of animal ethics based on Two-Level Utilitarianism.
Two-Level Utilitarianism divides ethical thought into two levels, the “intuitive level” and the “critical level”, and explains how we should think according to various situations. In general situations, we operate at the former level, dealing with issues by following simple intuitive rules. In novel situations, however, we are required to move to the latter level and adopt utilitarian critical thinking.
Verner applies this theory to Animal Ethics. He categorizes sentient animals into three groups based on research into their sensory and cognitive abilities: “person”, “near-person” and “merely sentient”. He also considers the issues of animals from both the intuitive and the critical level, addressing agriculture. Verner’s practical-oriented theory is commendable for its detailed arguments.
On the other hand, there are also serious problems with his theory. For example, he argues that “life story” has special value, but his explanation is unconvincing. He also argues that humane agriculture can be rational, but properly applied Two-Level Utilitarianism would rather prohibit such agriculture. In this paper, I propose adopting the hedonism for the former issue and the abolitionist approach for the latter issue. This study analyzes these points to highlight the challenges and prospects in constructing animal ethics based on Two-Level Utilitarianism.
