Therefore, rights must be based on other criteria. Others would argue that people have rights if they belong to the species Homo Sapiens. To have a consistent moral philosophy, a morally relevant characteristic must be found that not only allows for the inclusion of all humans, but also distinguishes between a wax dummy and an infant. The only characteristic that simply and consistently meets these requirements is the capacity for suffering. If a being cannot suffer, then it does not matter to that being what happens to it.
All sentient beings deserve to have their interests and inherent value respected.
Any complete moral philosophy cannot ignore these concerns. Forbes Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15235. Vegan Outreach Homepage on the World-Wide Web.