J. C. Evans

People are not used to the idea of animal welfare in the context of commercial fishing. Constructive debate about fish welfare must begin with an understanding of what is meant by this term. This short paper outlines three different philosophical views on how animals should be treated. The dominant Western view has traditionally been one that recognises no duties towards animals. On the contrary, some people argue that animals have a right to life and that a vegetarian diet is more ethical. The author argues for a third possibility – that of respectful use of animals – and concludes that:

“concern for the welfare of the fishes humans eat is simply what should be expected from humans as good citizens in the community of living creatures”.

Link to paper