Donuel - Is a mature dog more conscious and aware than a day old child, in your opinion (this will always be opinion, as there is no scientifically valid measure of consciousness - even its very definition eludes us)? If yes, do I have the right to "put down" my day old child? If not, do you believe there is some sudden increase in conscious awareness that occurs at the moment of birth - and what would you base this idea on?

Bagpuss