Craven Community College

In this chapter, I analyze the discourse on animal ethics from the perspective of Islamic teachings and traditions. I discuss the tension in a multicultural society between animal rights/welfare and the practice of Islamic animal slaughter, where the latter is often considered as inhumane and inferior to modern slaughter practice. I argue for a different way to formulate a richer multicultural conversation about human–animal relationships that challenges the marginalization of religion in general, and Islam in particular, by critically analyzing the way the current discourse reduce the issue to a matter of an accommodation to religious minority rights.

Editor: I have rather enjoyed all the comments expressing near universal disgust with Lifelong Learning Self-Assessment (LLSA) and the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM). Dr. Chris Dutra also expressed frustration with the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), and recommended emergency physicians join the American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM). (“ABEM and ACEP: Two Peas in a Pod,” [letter] EMN 2006;28[6]:3.) I'm not convinced that AAEM is much better than ACEP, especially because one of their principles endorses certification through ABEM or AOBEM. As a board certified emergency physician, I have chosen not to belong to either “professional” group. I realize that being a free thinker in emergency medicine is an oddity, and there is a constant barrage of pressure one must endure to stay independent. My impression of both organizations is that they are political, not professional, organizations as they claim. Having FACEP or FAAEM after one's name is almost like writing Republican or Democrat after it. I realize most members join out of peer pressure and not wanting to create waves in the workplace, but I encourage everyone to read the principles guiding both organizations. Do you agree with your group? My first problem with ACEP and AAEM is that they both endorse the idea of a universal “right” to emergency medicine. I think Americans have become obsessed with rights, and I feel strongly that no one has an inherent “right” to health care. Emergency physicians provide a great deal of free care, and it is taking a toll on our profession. Unlike truly needy patients, many self-pay (no-pay) patients tend to be the most demanding during a clinical shift. Many emergency departments have had to close because everyone wants this “right,” but very few are willing to pay. ACEP and AAEM are on the wrong side of this issue. My second problem with ACEP and AAEM goes to the LLSA issue. I for one feel I have jumped through way too many hoops to get to where I am professionally. Physicians need fewer regulations imposed, not more. If our careers and families were not constantly harassed with continued pay cuts, lawsuits, and government regulations, I would not have such a problem with programs like LLSA and recertification. However, I find the process degrading, of limited educational value, and an ongoing attempt to continuously raid my wallet. For now, I remain an independent emergency physician. I ask all emergency physicians to challenge the two groups (ACEP and AAEM), and ask if they truly act in the best interest of emergency medicine. Tom Malinich, MD New Bern, NC