What current science tells us about the capacity for suffering in invertebrates including crabs, lobsters, bees, and octopus, and how this should inform our behavior.
The question of invertebrate sentience is scientifically and philosophically contested, but evidence is mounting that at least some invertebrates have the neural machinery for negative experiences. This has profound implications given the sheer numbers involved - insect farming alone may involve trillions of animals. The precautionary principle suggests that in the face of uncertainty, we should minimize unnecessary suffering in these animals, even before scientific consensus is reached. This is increasingly influencing legislation and corporate practice.