Description
Book SynopsisAnimals and Science examines the debates, from the Renaissance to the present, surrounding issues of animal rights, consciousness, and self-awareness.
Animals and Science examines what science has (and has not) taught us about the nature of nonhuman animals and explores the moral, religious, social, and scientific implications of those teachings. It shows how the scientific study of animals, especially their cognitive abilities, has transformed our understanding of them. Animals and Science traces our evolving understanding of animal pain and considers its moral relevance to humans. It discusses Darwin's belief-shattering notion that species differences are not absolute, then traces its impact to the present day.
Ultimately, Animals and Science is about the nature of science—the kinds of questions science can and cannot answer, and the role of theory in shaping the interpretation of evidence.
- 12 thought-provoking essays trace the evolution of our ideas about animals and their impact on science, medicine, and society
- The book includes an extensive collection of primary source documents, ranging from Thomas Aquinas' Summa contra Gentiles to Peter Singer's Animal Liberation
Trade Review"In this philosophical treatment of the history of humankind's relationship with animals, Shanks provides the broad historical background and ethical framework . . . the reading is a pleasure and the rewards are great." -
School Library Journal"[V]ery useful book . . . The writing is clear and interesting . . .
Animals in Science will be a valuable addition to any public or academic library." -
American Reference Books Annual
