The Morals of Animals.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXX, Issue 18, 1 May 1902, Page 29

The Morals of Animals.

It may be questioned whether animals have any conception of morals as we understand the term. But in a general sense it wo;uld certainly seem that they have. In the social sense there is no doubt as to the answer. To take a well-k.no wta instance, the ant family have evolved a most complicated social system which apparently works to perfection, and that is more than can be said of any human system. In or,der, cleanliness, care of offspring, provision for future wants,! and military discipline,, no civilised society can compare with theirs. They are slave-holders, it is true, but they treat their slaves with every kindness and consideration, and the warrior ants defend them in time of danger. Another excellent example is furnished by the beaver. During, summer it leads a solitary life, but) at tne approach of winter commanities are formed, building operations) commence, stores laid up as soon as the dwellings are completed, and every individual of the community recognises clearly that the interest of the family and the colony come first. In their family life, they, in common with many other animals, offer an example which might well be copied, not only by savage, but also by civilised communities.