The Discussion Of Animal's Position In Law

Because of uncontrolled human exploitation and consumption of the natural resources, the environment human existence has greatly worsened, resulting in the gradual extinction of many animals. With an awareness of the severity of such problems, people in many countries are now calling upon their governments to enact relevant law for improving the environment and protecting the animals. On the basis of such information, the author of this thesis proposes that the rise of environmental ethics, which embodies a shift from human orientation to ecological orientation, the problems concerning understanding and maintaining animals' lawful status and rights deserve our attention. And starting from this point of view, the thesis first analyzes the domain of animals' rights, with explanation of a series of supporting theories. It then studies some changes of the subjects of law in history, and with the enlightenment of history, it concludes that animals are in the position to become limited subject of the law. Therefore, acknowledgement of such status of the animals is in conformity with the trend of development of the international animal liberation movement, and will naturally win more powerful support. In the end, the author gives a description of the present situation of the environment and animal protection, pointing out the weak points and making some constructive suggestions.