论动物保护立法的伦理基础

The Ethical Basis of Animal Protection Legislation

动物保护立法极具争议,目前存在着两种不同的解释路径:一种是以功利主义为基础的动物保护理论,认为动物是民法上的特殊物,应当人道地对待动物并确保其享有动物福利,但不放弃利用动物;另一种是以康德主义为基础的动物权利理论,主张动物享有基本的道德权利和法律权利,动物保护立法就是要规定动物的主体地位,放弃对动物的利用。两种主张均存在不足之处,我国的动物保护立法必须在立足于现实的基础上进一步拓展伦理依据。

Animal protection legislation is a controversial issue.There are two different academic theories.One is based on utilitarianism, requiring humane treatment for animals.The aim of animal protection legislation is to ensure the welfare of animals in their lifetime, but it does not mean to give up making use of animals.Another one is based on Kantian, advocating animals have basic moral rights and law rights.It demands people give up exploiting animals.Two theories all have inadequacies and our legislation needs to continue to ponder the ethical basis according to the reality.