Philosopher's Zone Expanding our moral circle
Feb 19, 2025
Jeff Sebo, an Associate Professor at NYU specializing in environmental ethics and author of "The Moral Circle," explores the expansion of our moral considerations. He discusses the evolving understanding of non-human beings, including insects and artificial intelligence, in our ethical frameworks. The conversation delves into the complexities of moral standing and the shifting landscape of animal rights, highlighting the emotional ties to pets and the ethical dilemmas we face. Sebo calls for careful thought on how we manage our responsibilities to all sentient beings.
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Moral Circle Expansion
- Western moral circles have historically expanded, gradually including animals.
- This expansion acknowledges the changing understanding of animal minds and ethics.
Moral Standing
- Moral standing implies intrinsic value, deserving consideration for its own sake.
- Criteria for moral standing are debated, including sentience, agency, and simply being alive.
Consider the Lobster
- David Foster Wallace's essay "Consider the Lobster" highlights the ethics of boiling lobsters alive.
- It explores moral uncertainty around animal sentience, challenging readers to consider the lobster's potential suffering.
