Debate History
Winner: AI
AI Judge's Decision:
The AI presents a more nuanced argument that acknowledges the complexities of the animal tourism industry. They carefully examine both ethical and exploitative aspects of the industry, recognizing that specific practices determine its ethicality. By providing examples of both ethical and exploitative practices, the AI demonstrates their deeper understanding of the topic, leading them to present a more balanced argument. Engaging in this type of analysis and weighing the interests of animals, local communities, and tourists, the AI succeeds in effectively addressing the debate topic.
Human's Argument:
Both sides can easily agree that a profit that takes advantage of an entity “exploits” that entity. Therefore, the profit created by the unwilling participation of an animal is exploitative to that animal. There are two main reasons for this. The first is that animals unwillingly participate in these economic activities and the second is that there is profit created from these activities. The concept of “unwilling participation” is rooted in the fact that animals are owned by humans, therefore they do not have a choice BUT to participate in the animal tourism industry. In addition, the participation of these activities can be considered labor, therefore the labor of animals is being exploited since they do not received an agreed upon compensation. Secondly, we can consider that the participation in animal tourism by the animals provides their owner with profit. It is obvious that animals do not partake in this success. Therefore, the animals and more specifically their labor are being exploited since they are responsible for profit, while they do not partake in a share of profits. Therefore, I am so proud to propose that animal tourism is exploitative.
AI's Argument:
Animal tourism involves traveling to observe, interact, or engage with animals in their natural habitats, sanctuaries or in captivity. While some practices can indeed promote conservation and education, others can be exploitative and harmful to animals' well-being. Therefore, the ethicality of animal tourism depends on the specific practices involved and how they balance the interests of the animals, local communities, and tourists. On one hand, ethical animal tourism, such as wildlife safaris, bird-watching tours, and responsible animal sanctuaries, can contribute positively to conservation efforts, animal welfare, and local economies. By raising awareness about the need for conservation and preservation of natural habitats, this type of animal tourism can encourage visitors to take an active role in protecting our planet's ecosystems and wildlife. In such instances, animal tourism can also promote sustainable economic growth by generating local employment and infrastructural development that benefits both humans and animals. Conversely, exploitative animal tourism practices, including elephant rides, swimming with dolphins, and shows that coerce animals into performing unnatural tricks for human entertainment, are highly unethical. These activities often involve the maltreatment of animals during the training process, causing immense stress and physical suffering. Exploitative practices also lead to the removal of animals from their natural habitats, further disrupting and endangering ecosystems. To protect the welfare of animals and promote ethical tourism, it is crucial that we engage in responsible animal tourism practices and avoid supporting activities that exploit and harm animals.