Philosophically anchored by thinkers like Tom Regan and Peter Singer, the animal rights movement seeks abolition rather than regulation. It asserts that because sentient animals can experience joy, fear, and pain, they have a "biography, not just a biology," granting them a moral right not to be viewed as resources. Historical Milestones and the Rise of Sentience
Legal crackdowns on puppy mills, mandatory spay/neuter initiatives, and global public awareness campaigns promoting the "Adopt, Don't Shop" philosophy. 3. The Legal Landscape: Progress and Sentience
The use of animals in circuses, marine parks, rodeos, and the exotic pet trade faces severe public backlash.