Bridging the gap between science and animal ethics. The morality of industrial animal farming with regards to animal welfare

Abstract

Current debates regarding animal rights and ethics tend to remain separated from the relevant science and scientific evidence. The aim of this thesis is to therefore help fill this gap by bringing together moral philosophy and the scientific study of animal welfare in the context of industrial animal farming. Although the facts and research exist, they have so far mostly remained independent of the ethical questions industrial animal farming raises. Discussion will draw upon empirical studies and scientific theory to debate the three main areas of evolutionary closeness, pain and physical discomfort, and psychological suffering to demonstrate how the conditions and practises in industrial farming affect animal welfare. The evidence presented regarding whether animals suffer in industrial conditions is used to conclude that it is not morally acceptable to continue to industrially farm animals. The impacts of industrial animal farming upon the environment, human health, violence and animal welfare additionally demonstrate that this system is of significant relevance to the field of peace studies.