I mean, think about it: Imagine animals were being kept in the same "economically efficient" way we do it today, but are being treated with chemicals that direct their endocrine systems to fully enjoy every last second of it. They are truly living the most joyful life that is theoretically possible. It's almost like Nozick's experience machine, but for animals. From a hedonistic point of view, they are living the best possible life. But when their bodies have grown enough, they get painlessly murdered and turned into meat.
What do you think? Would this be a more humane way of treating animals? Do you have ethical concerns about this? Do you share this instinctive feeling that this would be totally messed up, but can't fully explain why? Or, if you think it is unethical to eat animals now, would you consider it ethical then, provided climate change was left out of the equation? If no, why?
If you're the kind of person who likes to discuss philosophical thought experiments with their friends, this might be a fun one for you. You might even bring it up at the next party you attend. I think it could be fun (given an appropriate audience). And if it is fun, why don't you tell them where you got the idea from. They might enjoy this comic as well.
