Before I start down this road, I want to preface it with a disclaimer: I do not believe nor am I arguing on the topic of humans owning other humans. This article is a philosophical thought experiment reflecting on the rationale and justification of the domestication of animals, such as cats and dogs, through the means of a fictional alien invasion. So here it goes…
Let’s say the Green Beings came down and started to leash us up and bring us back to their homes to be cared for and pampered like we do with cats and dogs. Would humans be better off as Alien pets rather than continuing to be left to our own devices? And please, if so, let’s stick to good ownership. We can all agree that abusing animals, like beating a dog or neglecting your cousin’s hamster would be just as unpleasant for Alien pets as it is for human pets.
When it comes to justifying pet ownership, the first thing I hear is that our furry friends depend on humans for survival. Without us, they would eat trash, get sick, be without shelter, etc. But are we not as bad at acquiring those things for ourselves than our pets? I write this as my dog stares at me, because it’s not his feeding time yet, where he will eat the same dose of nutritious kibble he gets everyday. Without me, I assume he would eat chocolate or trash and end up sick. I, however, am eating my fifth bag of chips, while waiting for my McDonald’s order to be delivered. My other dog is a rescue, and I proudly say so to any who asks — and even to those who don’t. She was saved from the streets, and now has a warm bed. But if I didn’t work, would there be a bed for either of us? After all, I was homeless once. Would I be healthier and more comfortable under the care of the Green Beings? Is variety of taste a good enough sacrifice? We all seem to know what we should do for ourselves, but how many of us actually have the resolve to do so?
The next justification I’ve heard is that ownership of animals prevents overpopulation, which can lead to disease, starvation, and ecological disasters. Along the same argument, I’ve heard that animals left unchecked can become invasive and destructive. Hmmm, that kind of sounds familiar. Are we as humans not ravaging the environment with our incessant overconsumption? Are we really better than animals in that regard? Do we not invade and destroy? Would the Green Beings be able to better regulate our impact on the planet? Would they regulate the distribution of resources better than us?
There are more selfish reasons for ownership as well; like the argument that I’ve heard people say about how our pets help us with companionship, mental health, and bring joy to our lives. But then I’m left to wonder why most cat owners I know are depressed, lonely, and well … not well. Even more selfish is the argument that domestication has allowed us to farm animals easier, reducing the need to hunt for nutrition. Of course cannibalism is wrong, but are we really sure we wouldn’t be a good source of nutrition for the Green Beings?
Lastly, there is the argument of safety, protection, and love. If my cat was left on his own, an eagle could swoop him up and eat him. Animals kill animals. With me, Minou is safe. But, humans kill humans too; there are entire bachelor programs on the study of our doing so throughout history. I commend those who chose to major in history, as for me? I don’t have enough anti-depressants to get me through it. My point is, would the Green Beings keep me safe from other humans? Would the love and care they give me feel more satisfying than my cat’s cold shoulder?
Truth is, I don’t know. It’s honestly a thought I have been playing with and can’t make up my mind on. My brain screams for free will and a variety of flavours, but as I look at my furry friends I am left to wonder: are they screaming for the free will to eat trash? Do I really know best? How would I feel in their paws? If I had someone else making all my decisions would I finally get over eight hours of sleep? Would you?
