Expanding the Moral Circle: Why Animal Welfare Matters for Human Progress

The history of moral progress has involved the progressive expansion of who we consider morally relevant, and animal welfare represents the next frontier of this expansion.

Key Facts

Moral progress has historically involved extending consideration to previously excluded groups
Peter Singer argues the boundary of the moral circle should extend to all sentient beings
Psychological research shows individuals with stronger animal welfare attitudes are also more empathic generally
Children show natural empathy for animals which is often socialised away by cultural norms
Philosopher Will MacAskill argues future generations will view animal agriculture as we now view past atrocities
The expansion of the moral circle is a framework used by effective altruists to motivate animal welfare work

Welfare Considerations

The case for animal welfare is not separate from human moral progress but integral to it. Societies that extend moral consideration to more beings tend to be more empathic and just overall. Advocates can frame animal welfare as part of a coherent moral arc — from slavery abolition to civil rights to gender equality to animal liberation — that speaks to people across political and cultural divides.

What You Can Do

Frame animal welfare advocacy within the broader context of moral progress
Engage with audiences using moral circle expansion arguments when appropriate
Support educational programmes that foster empathy for animals in children
Share Will MacAskill and Peter Singer talks on future moral progress with interested audiences
Connect animal welfare advocacy with other justice movements to build broader coalitions