Humans Are Superior Beings/ Animals Are the Property of Humans. One justification for hunting is that humans and animals are not equals, therefore, as superior beings, humans have the right to do what they wish with animals (1). According to this belief, animals are the property of humans. Speciesists even believe that "animals exist for the sole purpose of satisfying human needs" (2). This idea is nothing new. In fact, many people use support from the Bible to help prove their point. In the creation story, God gave humans the responsibility to "rule over" the animal kingdom:

Genesis 1:26 ­ "Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over he livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground'" (3).

In addition, the Bible is filled with stories of animal sacrifice and the use of animals for food and clothing (4).

Hunting is an Ancient Activity. Another argument for hunting is that it is a traditional activity of men and that we should preserve our heritage by continuing to take part in this ancient sport. Many people see hunting as an important part of manhood (5). In some families it is a hobby that is passed down from father to son and is regarded as a special bonding experience.

The Animal Population Needs To Be Controlled. There are several reasons why people believe that hunting actually benefits the animal kingdom. First, some argue that without hunting, animals would overpopulate and die of starvation. The white tail deer population, for example, needs to be controlled; if their numbers were allowed to increase they would destroy the natural habitat. Another reason for why hunters feel that hunting is beneficial is because too many animals can present a risk to humans and their farms, ranches, towns, cities. It is argued that both crops and domestic animals would be destroyed if the natural animal population was allowed to take its course (6).

Humans Want Animal Meat, Skins, Etc. Some people prefer the taste of wild game to that of domestic meat (7). At certain fancy restaurants the menu consists of expensive dishes such as venison (deer meat), rabbit, pheasant, and quail. Obviously, there is high demand for the meat that hunters provide. While some people may argue that it is wrong for people to indulge at the expense of nature, others say that humans have the right to get what they want.

In addition, there is a high demand for products made from of the skins of wild animals (8). Clothes, shoes, purses, wall hangings, and rugs are just a few of the items that are made, sold, and bought. Why do people want these products when there are cheaper versions made from synthetic materials? People prefer them because they are rarer, more valuable, and decidedly more beautiful than those made of regular material.

Another reason why people continue to hunt is because of the souvenirs one can display to show off their masculinity. Many people still mount deer heads on their walls to show their excellence in the sport, much like a swimmer or tennis player might collect the trophies and medals they have won. People in favor of hunting argue that there is no difference and that they have the right to participate in whatever sport they choose (9).

Citations:

(1) "Animals Do Not Have Rights." Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. 13 May 2002. <http://galenet.galegroup.com/servlet/OVRC>

(2) "Animals Have Rights." Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. 13 May 2002. <http://galenet.galegroup.com/servlet/OVRC>

(3) The Bible.

(4) Schuh, Dwight. "Animal Rights?" Bowhunter Oct-Nov 1999 pg. 36.

(5) Thiroux, Jacques P. Ethics: Theory and Practice. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2001.

(6) Ibid.

(7) Ibid.

(8) Ibid.

(9) Ibid.

Issues Affecting Sportsmen - This page lists a series of articles about bills being passed against hunting and what hunters should do to keep their sport safe.

Hunting Information Systems - This page has several hunting related articles.

US Sportmen's Alliance - (Fomerly the Wildlife Legislative Fund of America ) this organization provides direct lobbying and grassroots coalition support to protect and advance the rights of hunters, fishermen, trappers and scientific wildlife management professionals. This is accomplished through coalition building, ballot issue campaigning and legislative and government relations. 

The Hunting Network - This is another very pro-hunting website.

SmartHunter.com - This website claims to be the "site for real hunters."