It's important to clarify that allowing all other animals to die out would not only be ethically problematic but also extremely detrimental to the human species and the overall health of the planet.
Ecological Collapse: The extinction of all other animals would lead to a collapse of ecosystems, as each species plays a role in maintaining balance within their habitat.
Loss of Biodiversity: Biodiversity is crucial for the resilience of ecosystems. Losing all other animals would dramatically reduce biodiversity, making the planet more susceptible to environmental changes and less able to bounce back from disruptions.
Agriculture: Many agricultural practices rely on animals, either directly (like for labor or milk) or indirectly (for pollination or pest control). If all animals were to die out, it would severely impact food production.
Decomposition and Nutrient Cycling: Animals play a key role in breaking down organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil, which is crucial for plant growth and, subsequently, human food sources.
Disease Transmission: While some diseases can be transmitted from animals to humans, the loss of animals could disrupt the natural balance of pathogens, potentially leading to unforeseen consequences for human health.
Climate Regulation: Animals, particularly those in large numbers or with significant ecological roles (like insects and marine life), contribute to processes that help regulate the climate.
Economic Impact: Many industries rely on animals, directly or indirectly, for economic activity, including tourism, fishing, and clothing. The loss of animals would have profound economic repercussions.
Cultural and Emotional Impact: Animals are deeply ingrained in human culture, providing companionship, inspiration, and spiritual significance. Their disappearance would have significant societal and emotional impacts.
Research and Medicine: Animals are used in research to test new drugs and medical treatments. Without them, advancements in medicine could be hindered.
Ethical Considerations: From an ethical standpoint, allowing other species to die out due to human actions would raise serious moral concerns about human responsibility towards other forms of life.
The interconnectedness of life on Earth means that the loss of any species can have cascading effects. Thus, the extinction of all other animals would not only devastate the planet's ecosystems but also pose severe risks to human survival and well-being. It's in humanity's best interest to protect and conserve animal species and maintain a healthy balance within the biosphere.