In the book Ethics into Action: Henry Spira and the Animal Rights Movement, author Peter Singer distills the methods Henry used over the years into "Ten Ways to Make a Difference." The selection criteria for this award are based upon these methods: - Understands public opinion, and what people outside of the animal rights/welfare movement are thinking.
- Selects a course of action based upon public opinion, intensity of animal suffering, and the opportunities for change.
- Sets goals that are achievable and that go beyond raising public awareness. Is willing to bring about meaningful change one step at a time.
- Is absolutely credible. Doesn't rely on exaggeration or hype to persuade
- Is willing to work with anyone to make progress. Doesn't "divide the world into saints and sinners."
- Seeks dialogue and offers realistic solutions to problems.
- Is courageous enough to be confrontational if attempts at dialogue and collaboration fail.
- Avoids bureaucracy and empire-building.
- Tries to solve problems without going through the legal system, except as a last resort.
- Asks "Will it work?" whenever planning a course of action. Stays focused on the practical realities involved in change, as well as ethical and moral imperatives.
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