>>25027441>they lack self actualizationDespite the fact that numerous Ghost, Psychic, legendary, and various other pokemon like lucario are probably able to outsmart humans and exhibit clear signs of higher level cognitive functions? Just going by the basic Hierarchy of Needs most Pokemon already fulfill all criteria up through esteem and many according to the Hierarchy satisfy the criteria for self actualization.
Malabar still shows signs of self actualization as it is capable of complex problem solving, manipulation, and being driven by a compulsion to achieve said task, with also a basic understanding of human nature. Same for Meowth on several occasions.
So the question is not if Pokemon are higher order organisms, which is certainly true, but rather if it is morally right to allow organisms to have the same rights delegated to trainers. Frankly, this should be no, as humans need the upper hand to coexist with the Pokemon race, being significantly lacking in terms of mental and physical ability, with some notable exceptions given to possible nonhumans like N or the Shadow Triad.
