The Ethical Problem of Exploitation of Animals for Tourism

Abstract.

Domestication of animals took place as a biological and cultural process. This was the basis for the Neolithic revolution resulting in the quicker progress of human societies (cf. Clutton-Brock J. A natural history of domesticated mammals. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1999, 30–31). Today, some people try to preserve a piece of history by keeping animals as a tourist attraction. Those involved in keeping animals to promote tourism, however, are often driven to earn as much money as possible, while not considering the well-being of their animals. In my paper, I consider the ways in which animals are used in tourism. I discuss whether cultural aspects of animal husbandry only serve as an excuse for the “overuse” of animals. I consider if it is justifiable to view animals as tools for the satisfaction of our needs or whether animals must be considered as beings with intrinsic value. It will be shown that even Kant believed we need to treat animals with respect. The urgency of these questions is heightened by the increasing incidence of suffering and death among animals employed in tourism. I argue that humans should not be allowed to take advantage of animals to this extent merely because they occupy a position of domination with respect to animal life.