Abstract
Can the main methods of social welfare analysis be extended to cover multiple species? Following a non-anthropocentric approach, we examine the pros and cons of various objective and subjective methods of well-being comparisons across species. We argue against normalizing by specific capacities but in favor of taking account of individual preferences and specializations. While many conceptual and practical difficulties remain, it appears possible to develop methods for the assessment of collective well-being of multi-species communities and ecosystems.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 257-295 |
Number of pages | 39 |
Journal | Journal of Bioeconomics |
Volume | 23 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Oct 2021 |
Externally published | Yes |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Geography, Planning and Development
- Economics and Econometrics
Keywords
- Animal preferences
- Functionings
- Hedonism
- Interpersonal comparisons
- Social welfare
- Well-being