the sound of martha

Question 1

What core idea does the story suggest about intelligence and moral value?

Answer 1

Intelligence and emotional depth—not species membership—may determine moral worth.

Question 2

What does Martha’s ability to speak and emote imply?

Answer 2

That nonhuman animals can exhibit traits traditionally reserved for humans, such as language use, social bonds, and self-awareness.

Question 3

What contradiction does Dr. Belinsky embody?

Answer 3

He acknowledges Martha’s humanlike intelligence but still treats her as expendable, revealing a moral inconsistency.

Question 4

What ethical framework does the story challenge?

Answer 4

Speciesism—the belief that humans inherently deserve more moral consideration than nonhumans.

Question 5

What philosophical idea does Martha’s death highlight?

Answer 5

That beings with cognitive and emotional traits should not be treated as disposable, regardless of species.

Question 6

What concept of personhood does the story explore?

Answer 6

That personhood may lie on a spectrum defined by traits like sentience, communication, and emotional depth—not biology.

Question 7

: “Animals are tools; they’re meant for human use.”

Answer 7

Treating sentient, intelligent beings as tools violates basic moral principles of respect and justice.

Question 8

“She’s still ‘just’ a chimpanzee.”

Answer 8

Her dying words—“Why Why Why”—reveal moral depth. If we recognize suffering and trust, we must morally respond.