Steven M. Wise, Legal Pioneer for Animal Rights, Passes Away at 73

Steven M. Wise, a trailblazer in the realm of Animal rights law, passed away at the age of 73 on February 15th at his home in Coral Springs, Florida, after a brave battle with glioblastoma. Wise, renowned for his dedication to the cause, made significant strides in advocating for the rights of sentient beings, challenging traditional legal perspectives on animals as mere property.

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From his early days, Wise was inspired by Peter Singer’s “Animal Liberation,” driving him to defend animals of all kinds, from household pets to wild creatures like dolphins and elephants. His work, often seen as revolutionary, sought to establish legal rights for animals, emphasizing their cognitive sophistication and intrinsic value. Wise’s efforts were not just about protecting animals; they were about challenging and changing our societal norms and legal frameworks to recognize animals as beings with rights.

The Nonhuman Rights Project, founded by Wise in 1995, became a cornerstone in this fight, pushing the boundaries of legal precedent by seeking habeas corpus rights for animals. This innovative approach aimed to provide a legal voice to species like elephants, great apes, and cetaceans, highlighting their complex cognitive abilities and the injustices of their captivity.

Despite facing skepticism and legal setbacks, Wise’s persistence and legal acumen began to resonate within the broader legal community and society. His work inspired a generation of lawyers and scholars, including notable figures like Laurence H. Tribe, to reconsider the moral and legal standing of nonhuman animals.

Wise’s legal battles, particularly the notable case of Happy the Elephant, underscored the growing debate on Animal rights within the legal system. Although not always victorious in court, these efforts sparked discussions and opened doors to future legal recognitions of Animal rights, as seen in the groundbreaking ordinance in Ojai, California, recognizing elephants’ right to bodily liberty.

Steven M. Wise’s legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, compassion, and innovative legal thinking. His life’s work challenges us to rethink our relationship with other sentient beings and to continue the fight for a more just and compassionate world for all.

Animals Are My Favorite People by Tiny Rescue: Animal Collection

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