Ethics of Hunting

Many hunters believe hunting is ethical because it is so important to the evolution of humans due to the ways it effected our traditions. Homo Erectus evolved to stand on two feet because of persistence hunting. Early men would gather at campfires to cook their catch, which helped lead to the exchange of ideas and traditions. Over time, hunting even helped spread and develop languages (Grenier, Chapter 5.) Many countries have a rich history involving hunting. In the early days of America, hunting and trapping was a large part of the economy. In Mongolia and other parts of Asia, they have of tradition of Berkutchi, or hunting with eagles. These hunters treat their birds with the upmost respect; they are well taken care of, given some of the catch, and never treated like a slave, only a partner (MacWilliam.)

Others who support hunting view it as part of the hierarchy of the natural world. According to them, humans are natural predators sitting at the top of the food chain; therefore it is morally justifiable to hunt. Some would even argue that human existence requires the death of other animals. Hunting can be considered the most pure relationship humans have with nature.

Not only do some people view hunting as ethical, some also believe it is actually beneficial to the environment. Some species, such as deer, have no natural predators in certain environments. Hunting, in this kind of circumstance, helps control populations, which keeps ecosystems healthy. By keeping populations under control, animals have less competition for food, which contributes to a better life for the animal. It also promotes the well being of other species that share the ecosystem. In order to protect nature for future generations, it is important that the authorities manage catch limits, season dates, and laws. The sale of hunting tags can even bring in enough revenue to cover major conservation expenses (Patterson.) Hunting can also help eliminate invasive species in environments where...