In a world-first, deep-sea cameras have recorded sperm whales hunting 2,000 metres down. The behaviour is astonishing and it’s rewriting what we thought we knew.
I believe conservation in general raises many ethical questions and answering them may not be straightforward, so it's already a good thing to discuss these questions! For me personally, when deciding whether to "enter the space of an animal" or not, I ask myslef a question "what's the purpose? what are likely benefits?". If the answer is a conservation benefit for a population, species, or even entire ecosystems, I see it more like a healing process where some short and bearable for an individual discomfort may be necessary (although should always be done with respect to the animals welfare). I'll bring a more day-to-day example (I'm a vet): when your dog is sick, you bring it to the vet, and your pet may need to get injections, fluids or some exams done in order to heal. The dog will certainly not enjoy it, even if the vet and you will do everything to make this experience the less unpleasant possible. But it's a necessary step to healing. And for me, conservation is about helping nature to heal.
On the other hand, studies that only respond to curiosity and new data desire, with unnecessary animal discomfort, I find unethical. But that's my point of view! ;)
I this case, I think the discovery that was made can bring an important gain in the coservation not only of the sperm whales, but I hope it can also be an argument to not allow for the destruction of the deep sea.
Thanks so much for your comment. I really like the way you described conservation as a healing process. That vet example makes it easy to understand the idea of short-term discomfort for long-term benefit. Intent really does matter. If a study causes harm just to satisfy curiosity, it crosses a line, but in this case, I agree the discovery could help protect not just sperm whales but the deep sea too. Really appreciate you sharing your thoughts, and thanks for reading!
Understanding is a first step to loving and protecting. This helps to see the magic and power of the ocean, the whales and nature as such. While I wish there was more that us humans never touch I believe this is really useful! Thanks for the article !
I think it’s important for conservation to understand what we are trying to protect. Cameras designed to fall off like this are okay, and as long as animals are not harmed, I think it’s okay to observe the practices of other animals to gain further understanding of them, as long as both the intentions and methods are good
This is wonderful news. I relate with your concerns about causing harm or discomfort to any animal in spite of the perceived benefit gained. Knowing that human nature is to take, it’s a hard call to make. In this instance, learning about the sperm whale’s intimate feeding ritual, the momentary interaction with it seems like a good call. I’m glad to know we’re still doing good in the world, where “Do No Harm” can remain the priority.
I believe conservation in general raises many ethical questions and answering them may not be straightforward, so it's already a good thing to discuss these questions! For me personally, when deciding whether to "enter the space of an animal" or not, I ask myslef a question "what's the purpose? what are likely benefits?". If the answer is a conservation benefit for a population, species, or even entire ecosystems, I see it more like a healing process where some short and bearable for an individual discomfort may be necessary (although should always be done with respect to the animals welfare). I'll bring a more day-to-day example (I'm a vet): when your dog is sick, you bring it to the vet, and your pet may need to get injections, fluids or some exams done in order to heal. The dog will certainly not enjoy it, even if the vet and you will do everything to make this experience the less unpleasant possible. But it's a necessary step to healing. And for me, conservation is about helping nature to heal.
On the other hand, studies that only respond to curiosity and new data desire, with unnecessary animal discomfort, I find unethical. But that's my point of view! ;)
I this case, I think the discovery that was made can bring an important gain in the coservation not only of the sperm whales, but I hope it can also be an argument to not allow for the destruction of the deep sea.
Thanks for the article!
Thanks so much for your comment. I really like the way you described conservation as a healing process. That vet example makes it easy to understand the idea of short-term discomfort for long-term benefit. Intent really does matter. If a study causes harm just to satisfy curiosity, it crosses a line, but in this case, I agree the discovery could help protect not just sperm whales but the deep sea too. Really appreciate you sharing your thoughts, and thanks for reading!
Understanding is a first step to loving and protecting. This helps to see the magic and power of the ocean, the whales and nature as such. While I wish there was more that us humans never touch I believe this is really useful! Thanks for the article !
You’re very welcome, I’m so glad you enjoyed it.
I think it’s important for conservation to understand what we are trying to protect. Cameras designed to fall off like this are okay, and as long as animals are not harmed, I think it’s okay to observe the practices of other animals to gain further understanding of them, as long as both the intentions and methods are good
This is wonderful news. I relate with your concerns about causing harm or discomfort to any animal in spite of the perceived benefit gained. Knowing that human nature is to take, it’s a hard call to make. In this instance, learning about the sperm whale’s intimate feeding ritual, the momentary interaction with it seems like a good call. I’m glad to know we’re still doing good in the world, where “Do No Harm” can remain the priority.
Luke, thank you always for your good work!