Beyond human rights. An argumentation for the expansion of human rights to animals through an examination of the relationship between animal and human rights

Abstract

This thesis advocates for the expansion of human rights to include non-human animals. The argument will be presented by examining the relationship between human and animal rights in three different dimensions: Animal Rights as Human Rights, Animal Rights for Human Rights, and Animal Rights vs. Human Rights. Firstly, it will be demonstrated that the foundations of human rights are not that exclusively human after all, but inherently extendable to other sentient beings (Animal Rights as Human Rights). Secondly, it will be assessed whether animal rights can benefit human rights, addressing concerns about the 'levelling-down' effect of including animals and highlighting the synergetic relationship between the two (Animal Rights for Human Rights). Lastly, the potential conflicts between animal and human rights and possible solutions to solve them will be examined (Animal Rights vs. Human Rights). This will underscore the necessity of granting animals fundamental rights status, which brings these conflicts to light and allows them to be addressed on equal terms. While fundamental and radical changes are necessary for the full protection of animal rights, this thesis will also consider how to find just solutions during these transitional processes.