The Animals' Agenda: Freedom, Compassion, and Coexistence in the Human Age

What do animals want? Freedom, according to Bekoff (ecology & evolutionary biology, Univ. of Colorado, Boulder; Rewilding Our Hearts) and Pierce (bioethics; Run, Spot, Run), whose latest collaboration continues the theme of understanding animals. The authors argue that animal welfare (or the idea that using animals for food, research, or entertainment is permissible as long as we treat them humanely) is harmful, and using current research and their own experiences, they demonstrate that people need to stop relying on animals for their own purposes. Bekoff and Pierce believe that the concept of animal welfare masks the injustices done to animals and denies them their basic liberties; we must strive for well-being, not welfare. Although this book contains some compelling arguments, there are few suggestions for how to put the authors' beliefs into practice. However, those readers with similar attitudes will eagerly consume this title, and students will appreciate its ample endnotes. Potential converts might be deterred by the comments about those who don't agree with the authors' ideals, such as animal welfare advocates, zoo employees, animal behavior expert Temple Grandin, and pet owners (pets are "captive").