The Animal Turn

Charlotte Blattner, a senior researcher and lecturer at the University of Bern, dives into the intricate world of animal law. She examines how extraterritorial jurisdiction can enhance animal protection globally, especially in light of corporate interests and regulatory challenges. Blattner reflects on her personal journey in animal advocacy, critiques the clash between capitalism and animal rights, and discusses the potential for transformative legal reforms. This engaging talk highlights the need for animals to be viewed as individuals deserving rights within our legal systems.

Maneesha Deckha, a leading Professor of Law at the University of Victoria, explores the legal concept of personhood and its implications for animal rights. She discusses the transformative shift from traditional views to 'Legal Beingness,' a framework that addresses the unique identities of non-human beings. Deckha highlights the disparities in legal protections among different animal species and critiques human-centric perspectives in academia. Her insights provoke thought on the complexities of animal advocacy and the potential for evolving legal recognition that values all sentient beings.

In this episode Claudia talks to Angela Fernandez about the legal concept of ‘First Possession’ also delving into the significance of historical research in considering animals and the law. Guest: Angela Fernandez is a Professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Toronto, cross-appointed to the Department of History. She is the author of a book-length study on Pierson v. Post, the famous first possession case often used to begin the study of American (and sometimes Canadian) property law: Pierson v. Post, the Hunt for the Fox: Law and Professionalization in American Legal Culture (New York: Cambridge University Press, 2018). She is an Associate Editor (Book Reviews) for Law and History Review. She is on the Board of Directors for Animal Justice Canada, a Fellow of the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, and a member of the Brooks Animal Studies Academic Network (BASAN) with the Brooks Institute for Animal Law and Policy. Learn more about Angela here. Host: Claudia Hirtenfelder is a PhD Candidate in Geography and Planning at Queen’s University and is currently undertaking her own research project that looks at the historical relationships between animals and cities. Connect with her on Twitter (@ClaudiaFTowne)Featured readings:  Pierson v. Post, the Hunt for the Fox: Law and Professionalization in American Legal Culture written by Angela Fernandez  Bed Music created by Gordon Clarke (Instagram: @_con_sol_)Podcast Logo created by Jeremy John (Website)Sponsored by Animals in Philosophy, Politics, Law and Ethics – A.P.P.L.E (Website) Part of iROAR, an Animals Podcasting Network and the CFRC Podcast NetworkA.P.P.L.EAnimals in Politics, Law, and Ethics researches how we live in interspecies societies and polities.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showThe Animal Turn is hosted and produced by Claudia Hirtenfelder and is part of the iROAR Network. Learn more on our website. Leave a Review on Podchaser Check out The Animal Turn Merch. Support us on Patreon, Buy Me a Coffee, and Buzzsprout.

Lesli Bisgould, an adjunct professor and barrister specializing in animal rights law, joins Claudia to discuss the evolving legal status of animals in Canada. They explore the differentiation between legal subjects and objects, highlighting the growing recognition of animals as entities deserving rights. The conversation delves into the emotional and ethical dilemmas of animal rights advocacy, the complexities of animal experimentation, and the challenges of owning exotic pets. Bisgould shares insights on the need for societal change to influence legal reform.

In this engaging discussion, Will Kymlicka, Canada Research Chair in Political Philosophy at Queen’s University, explores the intersection of animal rights and law. He unpacks misconceptions surrounding animal protection laws and critiques their impact on societal norms. Kymlicka delves into the philosophical foundations of state power and the nuances of governance concerning animals. The conversation highlights the need for intrinsic rights over property classifications and examines potential legal standing for animals, advocating for a profound paradigm shift in their treatment.