Quote:
Originally posted by mrnoodle
I don't buy that. If they aren't capable of having regard for my feelings, that means they aren't capable of abstract thought. That means they aren't capable of "feelings" in the human context at all.
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No, they're capable of feelings in the dog context, or cat context, or cow context, etc. In particular, they are capable of feeling pain. Pain is a mechanism by which animals (including humans) train their instincts and receive warning of immediate harm. The existence and effectiveness of thorns, nettles, and poison ivy are evidence that animals feel pain and discomfort. They may not be capable of empathy, but they are capable of feeling.