A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF HUNTERS ETHICS

I analyze the ''Sportsman's Code,'' arguing that several of its rules presuppose a respect for animals that renders hunting a prima facie wr ong. I summarize the main arguments used to justify hunting and consid er them in relation to the prima facie case against hunting entailed b y the sportsman's code. Sport hunters, I argue, are in a paradoxical p osition-the more conscientiously they follow the code, the more strong ly their behavior exemplifies a respect for animals that undermines th e possibilities of justifying hunting altogether. I consider several r esponses, including embracing the paradox, renouncing the code, and re nouncing hunting.