The item below is from the L&C in the Media. Please see that page for more information.
"Science, law, and sentient insects."
Media Source:
NBC NewsMedia URL:
https://www.nbcnews.com/science/science-news/animal-consciousness-scientists-push-new-paradigm-rcna148213Date:
2024/04/19Summary:
Scientists are increasingly finding evidence of sentience – conscious thought or experience – among insects, fish, and other creatures. This understanding of consciousness across species has important legal implications, notes Lewis & Clark Professor Raj Reedy. Currently, federal law does not classify animals as sentient, according to Reddy. Instead, laws pertaining to animals focus primarily on conservation, agriculture or their treatment by zoos, research laboratories, and pet retailers. Recognizing sentience might lead to different judicial opinions in cases that involve or effect these creatures.
