Philosophy
February 6th, 2023
PHIL 110 Discussion 1: What makes a pig a pig? Or, as a paraphrase of that question, why is a pig always a pig and not a dog or a monkey? Without using a dictionary or any other outside sources, what is your answer to this question? How do you know?
Answer:
A pig is a pig because of its unique combination of physical and genetic traits, which are distinct from those of a dog or a monkey. These traits determine the pig’s characteristic appearance, behavior, and biological processes, and are passed down from generation to generation through its DNA. Our understanding of these traits and their underlying genetic basis allows us to classify the pig as a distinct species within the animal kingdom.