Animal Rights – Join the Channel 4 Debate

© iStockPhoto / lculig

A couple of weeks ago, I had the interesting experience of being filmed in an all-white studio for Channel 4’s 90-second opinion programme, 4thought.tv. All this week, they’re featuring the question, “Should animals have the same rights as humans?” Good question.

If you’re not familiar with the show, it follows Channel 4 News each night and features just one person speaking into the camera on the week’s chosen subject. It doesn’t shy away from difficult subjects either – in previous weeks, the show has asked, “Is abortion ever justified?” and “Are we too soft on lawbreakers?” I haven’t seen the other films in the series, but there’s an interesting line-up of speakers. Up first (tonight, Monday) is Professor John Stein of Oxford University, a primate researcher I’ve debated more than once, who will presumably be defending his work. There will also be contributions from Tim Bonner of the Countryside Alliance, a Christian scholar who supports animal rights and other individuals who will talk about their own experiences. It looks fascinating, and you can express your own views on the films and the issue on the programme’s website.

As for what I said? Well, they filmed for an hour and will edit it down to 90 seconds, so I’m looking forward to finding out myself. My film airs Tuesday. Watch them all if you can – and don’t be afraid to join the online debate.