Conclusion
Man is often considered the most intelligent of animals, and judging by the sheer capacity of our intellect, this appears true. However, it is interesting to compare humans with nonhuman animals in our ability to live within our means on finite resources. Though nonhuman animals lack the ability to intellectualize their existence, they also lack the desire to do so. While humans invent non-biodegradable materials and subsist off fossil fuels, animals require only their natural habitat and inborn faculties. Animals kill only to survive; humans, conversely, kill for power, money, land, and sport. Animals experience happiness when all their needs are satisfied. Humans, even when satisfied, almost always want more. Which then is the more intelligent animal?
In comparing humans to nonhuman animals, Rachels asserts:
Other animals live in communities, as do humans; they communicate with one another, and have ongoing social relationships, killing them disrupts lives that are perhaps not as complex, emotionally and intellectually, as our own, but that are nevertheless quite complicated. They suffer, and are capable of happiness as well as fear and distress, as we are. So what could be the rational basis for saying that we have a right to life, but that they don’t? (472)
It is not difficult to comprehend the cruelty humans inflict upon animals; the difficulty lies in the conviction to no longer be apart of it. It is important to note that the conversion to a vegetarian or vegan diet is certainly the path of most resistance. This “road less traveled” is chosen only by those unwilling to support the alternative. Suffice it to say that those facing this choice can do so with the conviction that they are not alone; the way has been forged by countless others before you, all you have to do is follow. Not only will you save the lives of innocent animals with this decision, but you will also help save the environment, and ultimately, yourself. Thomas Edison reminds us that “non-violence leads to the highest ethics, which is the goal of all evolution. Until we stop harming all other living beings, we are still savages” (qtd. in IVU). Knowledge is the greatest power a person can possess. Knowing what you know now, arms you with the power to make an informed decision. Please make the best choice for you, for the animals, and for the world.
