
FOR HUNTING |
AGAINST HUNTING |
1. Population controlProponents argue that hunting is an effective form of animal population control, particularly since most natural predators (such as wolves) have been eliminated in many countries. Hunters keep animal populations in check which, ultimately, benefits ecosystems and the environment (and prevents animal starvation). |
1. UnnecessaryHumans used to hunt because they had no choice. They needed to hunt to feed and clothe their families. Today, however, this is clearly no longer the case. We can buy food and clothes in shops, and so we hunt purely for our pleasure and not necessity. |
2. We eat animalsWhether you like it or not, we live in meat-eating societies. Killing a deer for food is no worse (and may, in fact, be better) than slaughtering a cow on a farm. At least the deer lived a life free in the wild and had the possibility of escaping. |
2. CrueltyHunted animals often suffer pain and fear while being chased, and even if they escape they may have been injured. If population control is really the reason, then there are more humane ways of doing it that don’t cause so much suffering to the animals. |
3. TraditionHunting predates humanity. It is an age-old tradition and a bonding experience between hunters. In addition, many local economies are reliant on hunting, particularly in rural areas. |
3. Guns, guns, gunsThe arguments in favour of hunting are often difficult to disentangle from the gun control debate. There are other ways of hunting (e.g. with dogs or bows) but, alongside personal defence, hunting is one of the principle justifications for civilians owning firearms. Hunting encourages social acceptance of guns more generally. |