[Alusdra]

I see the main clash between animal rights and welfare as being just as you say, CF#5pig- that between the relativist and the absolutist. To me, someone saying that a certain concept is "right" is completely abhorrent. I don't think anything is absolutely right (and I'm aware that saying that is a contradiction, but haven't been able to find a better way to state it). It's utilitarianism versus individualism. Ever since I was a baby geek tearing up and nodding with Spock saying "the good of the many outweighs the good of the few" as he was dying of radiation poison- that's crystallized it for me. If people, animals, rocks- whatever- if they have to suffer in order for the many to live, thrive and do well- then sorry person, animal or rock. You have to go. That's what I see as being the welfare position. Versus the rights position where no harm is ever alright.

So I agree- the disagreement is purely "theoretical and philosophical, NOT practical". As such, perhaps it might never be resolved. And as a relativist utilitarian- I shrug and say "we're going the same place" while the rights people tend to gasp in horror.

Incidentally- I'm more disturbed by my body NOT being used productively after my death than the reverse. Though I do agree that legalizing such a thing would lead to a market for dead bodies (such as there was in the past for medical students) and thus serve a detrimental purpose. But I'm a registered organ donor and give blood and hair as often as I can.

Thanks for pointing me towards Haidt Weatherlight! Interesting stuff. And the morality quizzes were a fun break from studying.