In his article “A Universal Declaration on Animal Sentience—No Pretending,” Dr. Marc Bekoff primarily calls his audience to action: his argument is not about whether animals are sentient, or whether treating animals the same as humans is good. Bekoff directly explains that scientists have reached the consensus that animals are in fact sentient, and that this question of fact is not the exigent issue. Instead, the stasis he addresses in the essay is the consistent action of his audience. As he phrases it, “It’s time to stop pretending that we don’t know if animals are sentient.” He argues that people inconsistently prefer humanity and blindly disregard the lives of animals. While he links to several different supporting texts and brings up scientific evidence, he clearly specifies that the science is done and no longer the issue. Bekoff’s main point even in bringing up these texts is to show his audience, who may not be well-versed in this particular field, that the scientific conversation is over. In fact, he references another of his essays, entitled “Animals are conscious and should be treated as such.” Merely the title of that essay clearly displays that he sees the issue of fact as resolved, while he still feels the need to persuade and motivate his audience to the right action.
Dr. Marc Bekoff's call to action to the audience is a strong argument. Even though he provides research that proves his claims the way he presents might not be as effective. His attitude towards the issue can turn off the audience which defeats the point of the article. He has an valid argument but his call to action may have been the wrong way for him to approach his audience.
ReplyDeleteI believe that in order to call his audience to action to science can never be disregarded or viewed as "done". Science and research may have swayed Dr. Marc Bekoff; however, it may not be as persuasive to people in his audience as a reason to act on the issue. I think getting the audience to first believe the science is a major key in them wanting to take action. I think he should have approached with the science being his reason for calling his audience to action.
ReplyDelete