Abstract

This chapter shifts the focus to the relational dimension of moral consideration, juxtaposing it with properties-based views. It first explores purely relational approaches to moral consideration that prioritize extrinsic relations over intrinsic properties. The chapter argues against these relational perspectives by highlighting their implausible implications in cases of social isolation and their tendency toward moral relativism, among other issues. As an alternative, it proposes a middle ground that integrates both properties and relations into moral consideration. This hybrid approach recognizes the importance of properties such as sentience and sapience, while also acknowledging that one can come to possess intrinsic value through certain morally significant relationships. By embracing this approach, the chapter seeks to account for the moral significance of sentient and sapient beings while addressing concerns of moral underinclusion associated with “properties-only” views.