In moral discussions regarding animals, reason should guide the establishment of standards and the evaluation of opposing arguments. However, it's often more insightful to begin with our intrinsic motivation, which can fundamentally be described as love. This love reflects a unique relationship where humans, possessing knowledge and strength, care for animals that are innocent and vulnerable.
When we react with empathy to the suffering of animals, it highlights a positive aspect of our character, even if we sometimes choose to ignore this sentiment. Those who dismiss such feelings as mere sentimentality fail to recognize a significant aspect of human nature that connects us all and urges us to advocate for the well-being of our fellow creatures.