ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to identify and defend a binary and inclusive basis for basic human equality that is normatively defensible. The mere existence of the human individual seems to constitute a binary, as well as inclusive basis, but the question is whether it is significant enough to do the justifying work. That question is at the center of this chapter, and it will be addressed in two steps. First, I will explore what we need to assume about the ontology of human identity in order to develop a basis of basic equality determined by merely the existence of the human individual. I will here argue that some kind of animalist view of human identity is the most promising. Second, and building on this conclusion, I will draw on two views to defend the position that a human animal as such is entitled to (at least) a constellation of negative rights: the substance view and the future of value account. I end this chapter by responding to some objections.
