OPINION:
Utah Gov. Gary Herbert should veto the decision by the state legislature to allow 12-year-olds to apply for hunting permits. We can’t expect to stop youth violence while simultaneously teaching children to kill for entertainment or “sport” (“Legislature approves Utah hunting permits for 12-year-olds,” Web, Feb. 21).
Research in criminology has found that people who commit acts of cruelty against animals often move on to commit acts of cruelty against human beings. After an extensive study of the link between abuse of animals and abuse of humans, experts have concluded that promoting a gentler relationship between children and animals might encourage a less violent relationship between humans.
Kids can enjoy the great outdoors in numerous nonviolent ways, such as riding their bikes, climbing trees, hiking, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, visiting a wildlife sanctuary, or completing a nature-themed scavenger hunt. All of these can help impressionable young people learn to care for and respect the environment, animals and humans.
MICHELLE KRETZER
Blogger, The PETA Foundation
Norfolk, Va.
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