Animal Studies and Philosophy

Philosophers since Aristotle have studied animals and issues arising from their use. Over the past decade, there has been growing interest in ‘Critical Animal Studies’: a field that integrates the work of scholars from a range of disciplines – not least philosophy – to shed light on animal–human relations. This is the first textbook to provide a survey of Critical Animal Studies from a distinctly philosophical perspective.

Rebekah Humphreys demonstrates how philosophical arguments play a key role in our proper understanding of the field, and synthesises these with a broad web of ideas from other disciplines. Incorporating the ethological research of scientists who study animal behaviour, she reveals what is at stake philosophically in our understanding of the interactions between humans and animals. A fresh approach is needed if we are to end the worst abuses against animals.

Animal Studies and Philosophy is a groundbreaking and invaluable text for students and scholars alike.

Reviews

"This book by Rebekah Humphreys is noteworthy for both its historical depth and its insightful treatment of a wide range of contemporary topics related to animal studies and philosophy. A work of high quality."
Daniel A. Dombrowski, Seattle University

"Among the many books in recent years on nonhuman animals and their treatment, this book is now the place to start in understanding the philosophical issues at play. Not only does Humphreys describe, often in depth, the views of key figures from the ancient Greeks to the present day, but she critiques, compares, and applies them to current perspectives and future challenges."
Gordon Burghardt, University of Tennessee, Knoxville