An Austrian court will soon decide whether a chimpanzee can be legally declared a person. The chimp in question, Hiasl (pronounced "HEE-zul"), made news when the sanctuary where he resides was facing bankruptcy. A concerned donor earmarked a modest sum to Hiasl. Schoolteacher Paula Stibbe petitioned the court to be named the chimp's legal guardian and thus spend the money on his behalf. The request was denied, and now Stibbe's attorneys are trying a new tack.
Under Austrian law, only...
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