The Ethics of Animal Experimentation

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the topic of animal experimentation by considering the ethical issues involved from a multidimensional perspective. The paper reveals that animals perceive physical pain and discomfort as acutely as we do, but contends that our moral responsibility is not to refrain from eating or making other necessary use of animals. Rather, the paper argues, it is our moral obligation to refrain from subjecting creatures to pain unnecessarily. The paper then explains that this includes minimizing their discomfort as much as possible in worthwhile scientific experiments and by narrowing the scope of what we consider necessary.

Outline:
Introduction
Discussion of the Issues
The Moral Equation
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Since the dawn of medical science animals have been used for the purposes of testing hypotheses before risking human health and human lives on untried new technologies. It makes perfect logical sense to do so, but the process is susceptible to moral criticism for subjecting captive animals to disease, discomfort, and often death, exclusively for our benefit. Certain types of scientific uses of animal subjects are justified, even at the animal's expense. Still, the most equitable balance of all the interests and ethical issues involved requires a multidimensional perspective instead of characterizing all animal experimentation right or wrong absolutely."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Moussaieff-Masson, J. (1995) When Elephants Weep: The Emotional Lives of Animals. New York: Bantam.
• Tangley, L. (2000) Animal Emotions: Do Animals Have Feelings?; U.S. News & World Report. (October 30, 2000).
• Tripp, P. (2003) World Issues: Animal Rights. North Mankota, MN: Chrysalis Books.
• Winter, J. (2002) Chimp Change; Village Voice (August 6, 2002).

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