Tom Regan

Tom Regan is University Alumni Distinguished Professor at North Carolina State University and general editor of The Heritage Project, a fourteen-volume series on the foundations of philosophy. In the following viewpoint, Regan argues that non-human animals have the same rights as humans do because animals are similar rational and emotional beings. He contends that viewing animals as inferior constitutes species- ism, a prejudice similar to sexism and racism. Furthermore, Regan claims that treating animals equally fosters individual growth and helps society become more compassionate.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What did Charles Darwin say about the difference between animals and people, according to Regan"
2. What examples does the author provide to illustrate the injustice of violating the rights of the few for the benefit of the many? 3. According to Regan, what four things do all secular and religious...