Bullfighting, known as “corrida de toros” in Spanish, is a traditional spectacle that dates back several centuries. It is particularly popular in certain regions of Spain, such as Andalusia and Madrid.

Topic: Case Study.

7. Bullfighting, known as “corrida de toros” in Spanish, is a traditional spectacle that dates back several centuries. It is particularly popular in certain regions of Spain, such as Andalusia and Madrid.

Similar to Jallikattu, bullfighting has faced increasing scrutiny from animal rights activists due to concerns about animal welfare. Many argue that the practice is cruel and unnecessary, causing unnecessary suffering to the bulls involved. Animal rights organizations have called for a ban on bullfighting, and several cities and regions have taken steps to restrict or prohibit the practice.

For example, Coslada in Spain declared itself an anti-bullfighting city, expressing opposition to the spectacle. Similarly, in Catalonia, the northeastern region of Spain, bullfighting was banned in 2010 following a campaign by animal rights groups and public support for the ban. However, it’s important to note that while the killing of the bull in the fight was banned, other forms of bullfighting without the lethal component continue to take place in some towns in Catalonia.

On the other hand, there are those who argue that bullfighting is an important cultural tradition and a form of art. Supporters of bullfighting claim that it holds deep historical and artistic value, with bullfighters trained in specific techniques and styles. They argue that the spectacle elicits emotions and is an integral part of Spanish heritage.

Moreover, some proponents of bullfighting argue that the bulls used in these events live relatively better lives compared to animals raised for slaughter. They highlight that fighting bulls typically live longer, free-roaming lives in open pastures, whereas animals raised for meat are often subjected to more confined and industrialized conditions.

This showcases a similar clash between cultural significance and animal rights concerns. It highlights the ongoing debate surrounding

    1. What are the ethical issues involved in the above case?
    2. Do you believe that Jallikattu is an ethically wrong practice or a justifiable cultural event? Explain your reasoning.
    3. Share your opinion on traditional practices that involve animals and the challenges of finding a balance between preserving cultural heritage and ensuring the ethical treatment of animals.

(Answer in 250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate.

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Case Study Fridays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Mention the conflicts between cultural practices and modern-day ethical norms that arise in the society.

Body:

  1. Mention the ethical issues and ethical dilemmas involved in the given case study such as cultural conservation v/s animal rights and others issues.
    Mention the pros and cons of continuing the tradition of Jallikattu and frame an argument either in favour or against the practice by giving ethical and practical reasons to support your argument.
    Give your balanced opinion on the issue.

Conclusion:

Conclude by balancing the conservation of traditions at the same time let go of certain aspects of it in the light of present-day ethics.