Evelyn Pluhar

Evelyn B. Pluhar-Adams (born July 8, 1947) is an American philosopher specializing in moral philosophy and the philosophy of mind, particularly concerning the moral status of animals. She pursued her undergraduate studies in philosophy at the University of Denver and later obtained a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Michigan, where her doctoral thesis was titled 'The Ontological Status of Colour'. Pluhar has dedicated a significant portion of her academic career to Pennsylvania State University, specifically at the Fayette Campus. Her tenure there began in 1978 as an assistant professor of philosophy. She was promoted to associate professor in 1984 and subsequently to a full professor of philosophy in 1996. Her research and publications have largely centered on ethical considerations regarding non-human animals. A key contribution to her field is her 1995 book, 'Beyond Prejudice: The Moral Significance of Human and Nonhuman Animals,' published by Duke University Press. In this work, Pluhar critically examines the 'argument from marginal cases,' which is often used to differentiate the moral standing of humans and non-human animals. She contests the idea that humans possess unique moral significance that justifies differential treatment. Instead, she advocates for an understanding of animal rights grounded in ethical rationalism, proposing that certain non-human animals are subjects of moral consideration and possess rights. Her work is recognized for its contribution to the ongoing philosophical discourse on animal ethics, influencing discussions on sentience, personhood, and the moral circle.