Pleasurable Kingdom: Animals and the Nature of Feeling Good : Book Review

"Pleasurable Kingdom: Animals and the Nature of Feeling Good" by Jonathan Balcombe is a captivating exploration into the emotional lives and capacity for pleasure in animals. Balcombe combines scientific research with relatable anecdotes to take readers on a fascinating journey through the diverse world of animal pleasure, challenging common assumptions and shedding light on the rich inner experiences of our fellow creatures.

The book presents a compelling argument that pleasure is not exclusive to humans, but rather, animals also possess the ability to experience joy, satisfaction, and contentment. Balcombe skillfully showcases the playful behaviors of dolphins and rats, the expressions of happiness in elephants and birds, and a wide range of other examples, illustrating the multitude of ways in which animals find pleasure in their lives.

One of the strengths of this book lies in how Balcombe blends scientific studies with relatable anecdotes, captivating readers and making it easy to connect with the emotions and experiences of the animals he discusses. The heartwarming and thought-provoking stories he shares engage readers on a deep level, offering a greater understanding of the inner lives of animals.

Throughout the book, Balcombe challenges the long-held belief that humans are superior to animals, providing ample evidence to dismantle this notion and urging readers to reevaluate how we interact with and value other beings in the world. By highlighting the joys and pleasures that animals experience, he encourages a shift towards a more compassionate and empathetic worldview.

In conclusion, "Pleasurable Kingdom" is a thought-provoking read that defies our preconceived notions about animals and their emotional lives. Balcombe's accessible writing style, combined with his wealth of information and compelling narratives, successfully makes the case for recognizing and respecting the pleasure experienced by animals. Ultimately, this book invites us towards a more compassionate and empathetic world, where all beings are acknowledged for their capacity for joy and fulfillment.

What are readers saying?

Jonathan Balcombe's book, "Pleasurable Kingdom: Animals and the Nature of Feeling Good," has been met with predominantly positive feedback from readers. The book delves into the emotional lives of animals, dispelling the misconception that only humans can experience pleasure and joy. Balcombe presents compelling evidence to support his argument and offers a thought-provoking perspective on the intricate inner worlds of animals.

Readers have praised Balcombe's engaging writing style, describing it as accessible and captivating. They appreciate his ability to present scientific information in an engaging manner, making the book informative as well as enjoyable to read. Many reviewers note that Balcombe's passion for the subject matter shines through the pages.

A recurring theme in the reviews is the book's ability to challenge existing beliefs about animal emotions. Readers find Balcombe's evidence and anecdotes convincing and eye-opening. The stories of individual animals and their capacity for pleasure and joy evoke strong emotions among readers.

Additionally, the book is commended for being well-researched and informative. Balcombe draws from a wide range of scientific studies and observations to support his arguments, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Reviewers appreciate the depth of Balcombe's research and find it both thorough and persuasive.

Some readers also appreciate the ethical implications discussed in the book. Balcombe raises important questions about how we perceive and treat animals, encouraging readers to reconsider their attitudes and behaviors towards other species. This aspect of the book is considered thought-provoking and impactful.

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