The Ethics of Animal Research
Animal research poses a difficult moral question, asking us to balance our concerns about the well being of fellow humans with those about the well being of another species. Scientists, the experts who review proposed research, and lawmakers balance these concerns every day. Ultimately, research is carried out such that animal welfare is protected while incredible lifesaving and life-improving knowledge is gained.
When are animals used for research?
- Animal research is done if and only if appreciable benefits to humans are gained that no other method could provide.
Why use animals for research?
- Animals serve as highly reliable models of human biology and behavior, allowing us to close knowledge gaps and meaningfully improve the human condition.
- In the case of addiction, drug-related deaths and incarcerations are a growing problem in the U.S., with the majority of addicts relapsing despite seeking treatment. We are in need of a better understanding of how addiction manifests and how it can be treated. Animal research can provide answers where human research cannot.
How are the animals protected?
- All animal research is conducted ethically.To be sure of this, all research is done in absolute accordance with certain government and institutional regulations. The U.S. requires scientists to follow the guidelines of the Animal Welfare Act and the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. Consultations with the individual institution’s veterinarian and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee are also required.
- As a general rule, scientists follow The Three R’s:
- Replacement of animal research with non-animal methods whenever possible.
- Reduction of the number of animals needed.
- Refinement of methods such that discomfort is minimized and knowledge gained is maximized.
Above all, animals are treated in the most caring and humane way possible. They deserve nothing less in exchange for providing us humans with invaluable insights and solutions.
For more information, please visit:
http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/air/AnimalResearchFS06.pdf
https://archives.drugabuse.gov/NIDA_Notes/NNVol20N5/Reference.html
By Rebecca Tom
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