Rain Without Thunder: Ideology of the Animal Rights Movement

[Recommended reading/Book reviews]

Rain Without Thunder by Professor Gary L. Francione.

In this wide-ranging book, Francione takes the reader through the philosophical and intellectual debates surrounding animal welfare to make clear the difference between animal rights and animal welfare. Through case studies such as campaigns against animal shelters, animal laboratories, and the wearing of fur, Francione demonstrates the selectiveness and confusion inherent in reformist programs that target fur, for example, but leave wool and leather alone.

The solution to this dilemma, Francione argues, is not in a liberal position that espouses the humane treatment of animals, but in a more radical acceptance of the fundamental inalienability of animal rights.

Gary Francione’s work is both refined and exhaustively documented. He helps the reader see clearly what the differences are between the animal welfare and animal rights positions, as well as understand their respective ideologies and opposing ethical imperatives. More than this, Francione makes a strong case for viewing the animal rights position as both realistic and practicable, as providing a constructive program for social change. This is, in itself, a major contribution to the literature and one that will change the course of debate over animals.

Michael Fox, Professor of Philosophy, Australian National University