The course examines from a comparative perspective the way in which the law regulates the treatment of animals. The following aspects will be covered:

  • Main theories used in animal ethics
  • History of animal related legislation and law
  • Legislation relating to different kinds of animals and legislation relating to animals in specific contexts, such as for example contract, tort, liability, criminal law, administrative law
  • Fundamental elements of the protection of animals and species in the legal system including the impact of the WTO, EU and US legislation
  • Meaning and significance of unnecessary suffering and reasonable cause
  • Law enforcement and effectiveness of present law
  • Perspectives of moral and legal status of animals