An Essay on Humanity to Animals (1798)

Description

It is hard to imagine any other editor who could situate Youngs book so clearly in the thought, culture and politics of his day, and perceive so many links with previous ethical thought and the subsequent developments that were to occur over the next two centuries. The combination of Young and Preece reminds us that the relationship of humans to other species is one of our most persistent moral problems, one which we revisit century after century, and, fortunately, one which has consistently attracted thoughtful and compassionate commentators. David Fraser Thomas Youngs Essay on Humanity to Animals, along with Rod Preeces Introduction and Notes, will be a valuable addition to the Mellen Animal Rights Library. The Essays historical importance is equaled, if not surpassed, by its analytical merits. . . . In his footnotes, he cites the leading modern proponents of various positions along the scale of animal rights. All of this information will be very useful to those seeking an overview of the territory. . . his exposition of Youngs argument is helpful, perceptive, and eminently clear. . . Dr. Preece has done a terrific job of editing the text. Those who are exploring the issue of human relations with nonhuman animals will appreciate having Youngs Essay readily available. They will also appreciate the intelligence of Dr. Preeces additions and the leads he provides for further investigation. Marian Scholtmeijer