Inhumane Society : The American Way of Exploiting Animals

A veterinarian offers a devastating indictment of the diverse ways in which the veterinary community and other animal industries exploit animals in America

On the heels of Returning to Eden and Agricide , Fox continues to write on behalf of animal welfare and rights. A consulting veterinarian and a vice-president of the Humane Society of the United States, he reviews the Society's origins and its expanding concern about the environment. He castigates fellow veterinarians for their alliance with industries that exploit animals; he insists that the primary responsibility of veterinarians is animal welfare. Discussing the scientific and ethical implications of genetic engineering, Fox regards biotechnology as a serious threat to the planet, and charges that agriculture and medicine, like other industrial systems, profit from inappropriate and improperly applied technological control over life. His guidelines for animal rights are offered as part of a broad commitment to fostering respect and reverence for all life and for the environment. Though the subject is provocative, Fox is probably addressing the converted.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

A noted veterinarian and columnist, Fox believes the ills of modern society are reflected in the way we treat animals and that most animal suffering is caused by humans rather than by nature. He suggests extending the golden rule to the animal kingdom and applies the principles of basic philosophy to animal life. Fox's opposition to purebred pet ownership and breeding will spark some arguments, and some farmers and researchers will disagree with his views on raising livestock and genetic engineering. Still, Fox is fair; he discusses both sides of each issue he identifies and then makes suggestions for more humane alternatives. The current animal rights movement has spawned a wealth of outspoken pamphlets and magazine articles, but few recent books. This one is very readable and takes a strong stance while presenting a creditably balanced treatment of the issues. Recommended for all types of libraries needing material on this important topic.
- Deborah Emerson, Monroe Coll. Lib., Rochester, N.Y.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.