What the study found
The article argues that sentient nonhuman animals are a stronger case for intrinsic value than nonsentient species and ecosystems. It also argues that, even while favoring ethical individualism about who bears intrinsic value, this view should not be atomistic and should instead recognize relationships and interdependence.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that sentient animals should take moral priority over nonsentient entities. They also suggest that many nonsentient entities can be understood as communities that are deeply important to, and in some ways inseparable from, the well-being of individual sentient animals.
What the researchers tested
The article assesses arguments in environmental ethics about which nonhuman entities bear intrinsic value, meaning value for their own sake. It compares arguments for sentient nonhuman animals with arguments for nonsentient species and ecosystems, and it reinterprets holist arguments to support a modified individualist view.
What worked and what didn't
The case for sentient nonhuman animals is described as far more convincing. The case for nonsentient species and ecosystems is described as uncertain at best. The article further argues that a non-atomistic individualism can capture the importance of relationships and may overlap in practice with some holist prescriptions.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not describe empirical data or experiments. It also does not provide detailed limitations beyond the scope of the philosophical argument, so the conclusion is limited to the claims made in the article.
Key points
- Sentient nonhuman animals are argued to be the stronger candidates for intrinsic value.
- The case for nonsentient species and ecosystems is described as uncertain at best.
- The author favors ethical individualism but rejects atomistic individualism.
- Relationships and interdependence are said to matter for understanding nonsentient entities.
- A modified individualism may overlap with some holist prescriptions in practice.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Sentient animals are judged more convincing bearers of intrinsic value
- Authors:
- Dayton Martindale
- Institutions:
- University of Colorado Boulder, University of Colorado System
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-05
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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