Species egalitarianism is a core theme of the article written by Schmidtz for the Journal of Applied Philosophy. This doctrine discovers the idea that all species should be equal and have moral standing, meaning to command respect (Schmidtz, 1998). To explain the worth of his position in the modern world, the author uses the thoughts of several theorists and researchers, including Paul Taylor, Aldo Leopold, and Arne Naess.
However, the discussions by Taylor about anthropocentrism (importance of human interests) and biocentrism (the recognition of four core beliefs about humans) were the most provocative ones. Being fulfilled with a variety of concepts and definitions, this reading aims at discovering the reasons for people to believe in their moral standing and respect, but not always equality.
The concept of equality is complex, and it is not always possible to give a clear explanation of why everyone deserves equal treatment and similar opportunities. For example, it is normal to believe that humans, as well as other inhabitants of Earth, are integral elements of the system and have to develop in the same sense and under the same terms. Another problem mentioned in the article is the presence of contradictions in almost every belief connected with species egalitarianism.
For example, Schmidtz (1998) discusses the necessity of killing someone for personal benefits like saving their own life. The same happens when humans start comparing their rights in regard to other forms of living (viruses or bacteria). As a result, the concept of self-effacing pacifism is introduced as a contradicting element of species egalitarianism. In general, it is concluded that all species cannot have moral and, what is more important, equal standing, in case it contradicts the needs of humans who believe that they are superior beings on the planet.
References
Schmidtz, D. (1998). Are all species equal? Journal of Applied Philosophy, 15(1), 57-67. Web.