Pandas - (Should they be supported by Humanity!)

[VorpalNeko]

Using naturalism as a guide ethics almost never leads to anything coherent. I don't see why "human nature" includes poaching but excludes empathy for cute-looking things, when arguably the latter is much more ingrained into the human instincts--so why don't we let that part of human nature "run its course"? That whole part seems like rhetorical nonsense.

The rest of the point is right, though, as there is no reason why a disproportionate amount of resources is spent on preserving the panda rather than the multitude of other species that continually die out other than that we simply find pandas cute. Objectively, the best environmentalist strategy would be protect species-rich environments (surprise, surprise) rather than specific species. But this conclusion is a bit muddled by the fact that 'cute' species are good for a raising public awareness and providing motivation for such. So arguably, either the entire environmentalist worldview is wrong (why?) or it is practically necessary that some species, like the panda, take center-stage in that effort.

[The Zodikosis]

I had a thread about this awhile back. Read it if you want further opinions: http://www.gaiaonline.com/forum/extended-discussion/should-we-really-be-saving-the-pandas/t.54787513/

[Mecill]

Pandas fill an ecological niche in their habitat. Unfortunately it seems to conflict with the needs of humans going into that habitat. It is also sad to me that they are being poached along with many other large mammals which are having difficulty coexisting with humans. Anyway, in order to save large animals it is also necessary to preserve larger wild areas (and hence many other species) so actually it is a good thing conservation-wise to protect pandas.

[Mez10000]

Pandas eat a massive amount of bamboo, all year round, so their 'purpose' involves keeping the population of bamboo plants under control.

(Incidentally, what 'purpose' do human beings have in their environment?)

Also, I have an issue with: "human nature of poaching" - killing an animal for any other purpose than terrotorial protection or food isn't natural - it's a socio-economic response. (i.e. We only poach for material gain - money - and the only reason we want money is because capitalist society tells us it's good)