Case 9: Yellowstone Buffalo Buffalo Yellowstone Buffalo Flashcards
What is the central ethical dilemma regarding wildlife?
When, if ever, are humans allowed to assist or intervene with wildlife?
Who are the stakeholders in the human-wildlife interaction?
- Humans
- wildlife sanctuaries
- trained wildlife personnel
- animals
- ecosystems.
What is the stance on human intervention with wildlife?
Only qualified wildlife personnel should intervene with wildlife.
What ethical theory emphasizes the importance of considering the overall outcome and welfare of all stakeholders?
Utilitarianism.
How does Rule-based utilitarianism approach wildlife intervention?
By designing rules that maximize welfare and minimize pain for both animals and humans.
What is an example of a situation where human intervention in wildlife might be justified from a utilitarian perspective?
Culling a deer population to prevent starvation and reduce animal suffering.
What are the potential risks of frequent animal rescues?
- Disruption of natural processes
- creating dependency
- spreading disease
- causing unnecessary stress.
What are the potential risks to humans when rescuing wildlife?
- Physical injury
- disease transmission
- human-wildlife conflict
- economic costs
What is the moral obligation of humans regarding environmental hazards affecting wildlife?
To correct these injustices and ensure benefits for the animal ecosystem while ensuring safety for both humans and animals.
Why is it important to restrict wildlife intervention to qualified personnel?
To minimize risks to both humans and animals.
What is the goal of the authors’ approach to wildlife intervention?
To optimize intervention to minimize risks and maximize potential benefits.
Why can’t unqualified individuals be allowed to intervene with wildlife?
Because it cannot be ethically justified under a rule-based utilitarian framework, as it may not produce a net benefit to the human-animal group as a whole.
