Should Pets Treated Like Children in Case of Divorce?

Ethical Relativism and Divorce

Ethical relativism is the belief that the acceptability of a particular norm is determined by the culture of the people. In this sense, societies have had varying perspectives on relationships and marriages, with divorce being a key example.

The American Society and Acceptance of Divorce

While many countries place numerous barriers to divorce, with some making it outright illegal, the American society has been more accepting of divorce, necessitating several laws to support the seamless transition of one’s life from marriage to the new status after a break-up.

Alaska’s New Development: Pets and Divorce

The state of Alaska has been on the spotlight for the latest development that seeks to shift the definition of pets from property to that of having the status of a family member in case of a divorce. Therefore, couples will have joint custody over pets, a move that has been hailed by animal rights activists.

Varied Perspectives on Animals

Not all countries and societies across the world may give such an issue the attention that it has received in Alaska. It is also likely to receive criticism from other people who consider animals as property and are likely to feel that the law is giving too much attention to a minor issue. This is because of the different amount of attention that animal rights issues receive.

The Importance of Pets in Alaskan Culture

Alaskans place so much emphasis on animal rights due to the bonds that many family members form between themselves and these animals. Therefore, the concept of moral relativism applies here in explaining why the state of Alaska has come to value pets to the extent of removing them from similar categories as property and allowing them to enjoy the partnership of all family members in case of separation, just like children.

Reference

Brulliard, Karin. In a first, Alaska divorce courts will now treat pets more like children. The Washington Post, January 26, 2016. Retrieved from https://www.adn.com/alaska-life/pets/2017/01/25/in-a-first-alaska-divorce-courts-will-now-treat-pets-more-like-children/