Expert: Robin Flynn - 5/2/2007

Question
Hi, I've recently asked you a question regarding pain in plants. But I do now take an interest in small invertebrates. I really do not want to be responsible for any kind of suffering but unfortunately no matter the efforts I make I surely not intentionally kill a lot of little critters each day by walking around, biking or breathing. Do you think those critters, like small insects or arachnids, feel pain? Thank you so much.

Answer
Hi Jack,


It’s nice to hear form you again.

I was able to find a couple of links that may help you answer this question. The first link is from another expert in the Allexperts Entomology section regarding insect pain. Please check out his answer.

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Entomology-Study-Bugs-665/insects-feel-pain.htm

The second link is a scientific break down with a conclusion, This may interest you as well.
http://www.parl.gc.ca/37/2/parlbus/commbus/senate/Com-e/lega-e/witn-e/shelly-e.h...

I am also concerned with inflicting pain on another beings. I avoid killing any inserts. I just find it unnecessary to kill a living creature  simply because its sharing space with me or its “icky”. If I  feel an insect may cause danger to me or a loved one I try to remove it without killing it. I’m not perfect and I’m sure I have unintentionally killed bugs in my life. However, I don’t dwell on it I simply avoid causing harm to anything. Its just good karma.


For the animals and insects :),

Robin