What purpose does Whitney serve in the story most dangerous game?

In "The Most Dangerous Game," Whitney serves as a foil to the protagonist, Sanger Rainsford. He introduces the theme of hunting and its moral implications by expressing empathy for the hunted, particularly regarding the feelings of the animals. This conversation sets the stage for Rainsford's later transformation and the exploration of human versus animal instincts. Whitney's character highlights the ethical dilemmas surrounding hunting and foreshadows the story's central conflict.