Is welfare invariabilism the right view?

Context and Relevance:

The debate between welfare invariabilism and variabilism addresses whether a single theory of welfare applies universally to all welfare subjects or if different theories are necessary for different beings. Given the diverse nature and capacities of humans and animals, this philosophical inquiry has significant implications for ethics, animal welfare, and public policy. Examining welfare invariabilism critically can lead to a better understanding of how to assess and enhance welfare across different species, thereby informing more accurate and fair ethical frameworks and policy decisions.

Article on Welfare Invariabilism: https://doi.org/10.1086/694272

Potential Research Approach:

• Philosophical Analysis: Critically analyze the arguments for and against welfare invariabilism, exploring various philosophical perspectives on the nature of welfare.

• Empirical Investigation: Conduct studies to examine how welfare levels are perceived and how they change in response to different environmental and psychological factors across various species.

• Comparative Study: Compare existing theories of welfare to determine if and how they apply differently to humans and animals.

• Policy Implications: Assess the impact of adopting welfare invariabilism or variabilism on public policy, particularly in the areas of animal welfare and ethical treatment.

• Stakeholder Interviews: Gather insights from philosophers, ethicists, animal welfare experts, and policymakers on the practical implications of these theories.

Additional Questions:

1. Does welfare invariabilism accurately reflect the nature of welfare for both humans and animals, or do different species require different theories of welfare?

2. How do empirical findings on the perception and determinants of welfare across species support or challenge the theory of welfare invariabilism?

3. What are the ethical and policy implications of adopting welfare invariabilism versus variabilism, particularly in terms of animal welfare and public policy?