After Monday's discussion about consciousness I got to thinking about how this applies to animals. Thanks to the developments in physics we are coming to the understanding that consciousness is the fabric of the universe and in-fact forms the particles before our eyes. Without conscious observation, the energy in the universe is in waveform. Because of this understanding, it would be impossible for animals to observe the universe and react to it without consciousness.
Since anything that has a consciousness is able to perceive what is happening to it, and form memories based on their experiences. These memories, depending on the cognitive abilities of the animal in question will affect the animal for as long as their mind will permit. Subconsciously these experiences could even effect the animal for even longer.
For instance, a dog who has been beaten even once by its owner will probably never forget or forgive them. They would remember what had happened to them and it would shape their experience for the rest of their lives.
This is why I would say that we owe anything that is having a conscious experience of life a moral standing and ethical treatment based on their experiences.
No comments:
Post a Comment