The key answer of exercise 7

a)

Animals are as important as humans

This perspective holds that animals are of equal importance to humans, emphasizing the need to treat animals better. It suggests a more ethical and compassionate approach towards the well-being of animals.

Humans are the most important creatures on Earth, and animals have utilitarian value

This viewpoint asserts that humans are the most important beings on Earth. It emphasizes the utility of animals for purposes such as medical research and food production. This perspective tends to prioritize human interests and needs over the ethical considerations of animals.

b)

Do animals and humans deserve the same rights?

In the realm of ethical considerations, the question of whether animals and humans should have the same rights has been a subject of ongoing debate. While humans have long been recognized as possessors of certain inalienable rights, the status of animals in this regard remains contentious. On one hand, advocates argue that animals share the capacity for suffering and should be granted rights to protect their welfare. Conversely, opponents contend that the unique cognitive abilities of humans justify differential treatment. For instance, humans employ animals in medical research, citing the advancement of science as a higher priority. In my view, while recognizing the inherent differences, animals deserve rights safeguarding their well-being, albeit tailored to their distinct nature.