Dr. Edwin A. Lockevs. Dr. Sapontzis

This is a sober, intellectual debate on an issue that is affecting ever-increasing aspects of our lives. Dr. Sapontzis (Professor of Philosophy at Cal State University, Hayward) declares that since both man and animal are capable of experiencing feelings, both species are entitled to rights. Rights, he maintains, are violated whenever the strong "exploit" the weak. Dr. Locke (Professor of Psychology at the University of Maryland) categorically opposes the concept of "animal rights." The only valid basis for rights, he says, is the fact that man alone possesses a rational faculty. It is only man whose life depends upon the exercise of reason; it is only man who must, therefore, be free to think —which means: must be free from force—in order to survive. To grant rights to animals, Dr. Locke argues, is to deny them to man. This debate is particularly instructive in revealing the philosophic premises that underlie this political issue.

(DVD; 2 hrs., 4 min., with Q & A)