The topic of animal experimentation and whether or not it should be outlawed is one of great controversy. I believe animal experimentation is often necessary and has led and continues to lead to important scientific discoveries.
Animal rights groups raise very important points regarding the ethics behind human experiments. Many pharmacological treatments that go on to save many lives require testing on multiple levels. Animals who have similar physiology to humans are often used to test how humans may potentially respond to the medication and to prepare for adverse effects. Previously, it is understandable that the concept of animals being a living thing which feels and senses was often overlooked by scientists, which resulted in many gruesome cases of animal abuse. Nowadays, there are many protocols and regulations surrounding animal experimentation which prioritise the comfort of the animal alongisde ensuring minimal pain. Most clinical and non-clinical research is required to be submitted to an ethics committee for approval. Similarly, those who use animals for product testing are required to follow strict methodical guidelines.
There has been a rise in companies who report their products to be “cruelty free” and not tested on animals, which a number of consumers who cannot stomach the idea of animal testing flock towards. Where possible, experiments have adjusted to testing via computer models or synthetically made parts which are physiologically similar to their targets.
To outlaw animal experimentation would be to overlook the greater good, which are the breakthroughs they contribute towards – breakthroughs that positively alter the lives of many. With appropriate protocols and guidelines, as well as continued investment in alternative methods, the responsible use of animals remain justified.