Description
This book argues for a moral consideration of animal work relations. Paying special attention to the livestock industry, the author challenges the zootechnical denigration of animals for increased productivity awhile championing the collaborative nature of work. For Porcher, work is not merely a means to production but a means of living together unity. This unique reconsideration of work envisions animals as co-laborers with humans, rather than overwrought tools for exploitative, and often lethal, employment. Readers will learn about the disjunction between those focused on productivity and profit and those who favor a more ethical work environment for animals. Porcher’s text also engages environmental and political debates concerning animal-human relations. Jocelyne Porcher is Director of Research at INRA-SAD, France. Her research concerns relations between humans and animals at work. Introduction 1.What is Animal Husbandry? Discoveries and learning Zootechnics, the “science of the exploitation of animal machines” Laying down arms 2. The promises of work Work and emancipation Recognition of work and assessment of ties Animal Husbandry, a nuisance that we would be better off without 3. Industrial lifestock farms/animal production Contagion of suffering and moral suffering A redoubtable analogy 4. Animal death The industrial Abattoir: “difficult times” Killing animals 5. Living without life What is the purpose of “Animal welfare”? Liberate animals? The logical conclusion of animal factory : in vitro meat 6. Living with animals, a utopia for the 21st century Wild and domestic: the wolf and the ewe The status of domestic animals A good job Living conditions at work The place of the death of animals in work The collaboration of animals at work Conclusion Bibliography
