Exploration of ethical frameworks

ethical framework use

used to consider different ethical theories regarding an issue

examples of ethical theories

consequentialist, deontologist, environmentalist

question that guides consequentialist framework

will there be a good result which justifies the process?

question that guides deontologist framework

is this the right way? if so, it is your duty to act this way

question that guides environmentalist framework

how does this affect the relationship between humans, animals and the environment

consequentialist viewpoint in the case of ‘should we use ‘battery farmed’ hens to produce eggs?’

eggs are produced relatively cheaply and efficiently

more consumers can afford basic foods

hens bred for battery farming are not endangered

deontologist viewpoint in the case of ‘should we use ‘battery farmed’ hens to produce eggs?’

the hens are not companion animals, so we do not need to consider their living conditions

hens should not be farmed at all - they are as important as humans

environmentalist viewpoint in the case of ‘should we use ‘battery farmed’ hens to produce eggs?’

hens are part of the natural world and our lives are interlinked

hens are sentient beings and should be treated accordingly

humans should be allowed to obtains eggs however they choose; no duty to look after other species

function of an ethical matrix

encourages people to take into account the interests of all stakeholders according to different ethical principles, before coming to a reasoned decision

types of ethical principles

health and welfare, freedom and choice, fairness

examples of stakeholders

consumers e.g. different religious or social groups, farmers, farm animals,

criteria to respect health and welfare for consumers

quality produce and food safety

criteria to respect health and welfare for farmers

good income and working conditions

criteria to respect health and welfare for farm animals

animal welfare and conservation

criteria to respect freedom and choice for consumers

options based on information supplied

criteria to respect freedom and choice for farmers

freedom of action

criteria to respect freedom and choice for farm animals

behavioural freedom

criteria to respect fairness for consumers

food availability

food choice

criteria to respect fairness for farmers

compliance with legislation

criteria to respect fairness for farm animals

intrinsic value of the animals