The Theory of Consent in Sexual Abuse on Animals

Abstract

Sexuality with animals has always been an element of human culture, and it still is today, even far more widespread than generally thought. Recent research from the fields of psychology, psychiatry, criminology and sociology provided a large amount of information and adds some new insight to the rather scarce knowledge existing until then. While zoophilia was severely penalized on ethical and religious grounds for centuries, the age of enlightenment led to more rational views on this topic and consequently milder punishment until finally the sanctions were lifted in most countries. This paper gives a closer look at the existing law points and their loopholes in defining terms which makes it possible for preparators to go free out of the hands of law. Taking into account modern ethical animal welfare concepts, the viewpoint of the “dignity of the animal” as an important factor in the revision of existing laws, as well as the need for revised legislations as a result from this new idea are discussed in this paper.