A Death Of Ethics: Is “Hunting” Destroying Itself?

[Doug Hamilton]

I happened to get a letter to the editor of Traditional Bowhunting published, back when it was print only, on the subject of trophy hunting, which not even that community seemed to agree on. My point was that as we practiced it, it was normally a matter of self guided hunts, for superior specimens, where the fact of pursuing those specimens radically reduced the chance of success, raised the challenge, and all the meat would be eaten. This gave all the animals a better chance of survival; should mean they were more likely to be humanely harvested (on the assumption that only relatively expert people would make the shots and not just bust one loose and loose that chance for ever). Trophy hunting has a bad reputation, where it does, because people think that the hunters are not going to eat the animals, and and are simply obsessed with a wall hanger. And because they read the occasional article about someone whose quest descended to poaching.

Harder to defend are the guided trophy hunts, but they are the only option in many parts of the world. I can easily defend them, but given that even many hunters don't know what the easier case for trophy hunting is, I don't know that there is much point in trying to make the case for the general

Fascinating thread!
Some very intelligent articulate and compelling positions have been presented, (and some others as well).

I’m always grateful when we hunters can have thoughtful, respectful and informed disagreements with each other without them turning into arguments or name calling.

I completely agree that the best way to connect with non hunters is via delicious healthy game based meals. I have opened a LOT of eyes with delicious Bear Hotdogs!
The anti hunters will never be convinced of our views because emotion not logic informs their position.

Local, regional norms and traditions figure heavily into what is acceptable and considered ethical in different types of Hunting (as in much of life). It’s important to remember that Baiting, using hounds, long range Hunting, etc are traditional and accepted as ethical Regionally; and understanding the history and culture requires much more than a superficial observation.

Defining terms is also important and perhaps even more difficult. What do the terms “Trophy Hunting”, “Sport Hunting”, “Fair Chase” etc. mean? Without common language, misunderstandings are inevitable.

I often end lively discussions (when consensus becomes unlikely) with the phrase: “Well THAT’S why they make chocolate and vanilla!”
(Secretly I can’t fathom why anyone would prefer vanilla).

I guess in ice cream, it depends. On a hot slice of apple pie, or a warm chocolate fudge brownie or something, vanilla would be the way to go. But if you are just having a bowl or cone, chocolate is the only choice!

 

[ACE (in CT)]

Forgot to mention, to those who wish that city dwellers had to live with the problems they create: Coyotes have moved into several NYC parks, including Central Park! Should be interesting to watch.

 

[Doug Hamilton]

Forgot to mention, to those who wish that city dwellers had to live with the problems they create: Coyotes have moved into several NYC parks, including Central Park! Should be interesting to watch.

NYC, LA, San Francisco and other cities and all the suburbs. What happens when Mittens the kitty doesn't come home?