Robo-Croc: Crocodile Gets Reconstructive Surgery

I agree with the gist of what you are saying, VGD, though I have to say this - sometimes, those who "rise above" this very natural way of being, take it way too far. Don't get me wrong, I believe that all animals deserve compassion and if we are going to eat them, they should die as humanely as possible and not be wasted. However, the importance of that animal should never override the welfare of a human.

Well, evolution favors all species that can florish in this environment, not just humans. For example, roaches. Or cows (since they are easy to control by humans, and also delicious, their survival is prety much ensured by the behavior of the most savvy predator - man).

Anyhow, to answer Gatorlands' question (even though I think he meant it rhetorically :P) - they 'get off' thinking that because they are human. All species think they are the most important speciece, and all indiviuals animals think they are the most important animal of that speciecs. At least, by base instince. Humans, and other animals (notably, mother mammals) have show to value the lives of other individuals above their own. This can cross species too, if the animal views the other as something it needs to protect. (Like a dog who adopts a kitten, or a human and it's pet).

But the *general* species imperitive is "MY species first, and ME first among them." It's just how living things work (on Earth, at least). Sure, we can praise people who rise above this (and should), but to be angry at the very nature of life is... well... futile.

Being at the top of the food chain has its perks.

@Gatorland: "Where the hell do you get off thinking humans are more important than any other living thing on this damn planet? "

Um...Evolution?

For those who ask why oh why I would like to ask; "What if it was your pet or precious little snowflake child?" Where the hell do you get off thinking humans are more important than any other living thing on this damn planet? People like you are the very reason why species are in danger of extinction! This lack of respect for the food web will force us to pay a heavy price if we don't wise up. This line of "Only humans are important" thinking is the very reason why we need more science and less mythology in our lives.