Sentience
To be sentient is to possess the ability to experience emotions and sensations. It encompasses a spectrum of feelings ranging from pain and pleasure to boredom and excitement, along with a myriad of other states such as frustration, anxiety, despair, hope, and joy. These experiences are imbued with what philosophers term "phenomenal consciousness" — the sense that it feels like something to have them. It's evident that both human and non-human animals share in this capacity for subjective experience. Dismissing this shared capacity as uniquely human reflects a narrow view and an unjustifiable arrogance.
Recognizing the sentience of other species is crucial, as it underscores our moral obligation to consider their well-being and self autonomy. Our actions impact the lives of others, necessitating consideration of their well being. In doing so, we extend our moral compass beyond the confines of our own species, acknowledging the interconnectedness of all living beings.
“When we suffer, we suffer as equals.
In our capacity to suffer, a dog is a pig, is a sheep, is a boy.”Philip Wollen
philanthropist, environmentalist, animal rights activist