Elephant over-population : towards a theory of a just cull.
Date
2012-07-12
Authors
Gallagher, Felicity Vanessa
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Abstract
In this research report I address the question: Is it ever morally justified to cull elephants?
And, if it is, what criteria need to be fulfilled for a cull to be morally justifiable?
In answering the first part of the question, ‘Is it ever morally correct to cull elephants?’ I
defend the claim that the killing of elephants is a pro tanto wrong. The second part of the
question, ‘What criteria need to be fulfilled for a cull to be morally justifiable?’, directs my
attention to identifying conditions under which the pro tanto wrong of killing elephants
could be outweighed by other moral considerations. I identify and critically discuss these
criteria, developing what I call a ‘Theory of a Just Cull’. Finally, I apply my Theory to the
current situation in South Africa, and argue that it is not possible to ethically justify
elephant culling in South Africa in the current circumstances.
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Keywords
Elephant over-population, Culling