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Philosophy - Index
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Testing - Index
Animal Tests Harm Humans
Oct. 2005
Industrial lobbyist Frankie Trull has once again trotted out her tired
old claim that animal experiments are essential for the advancement of
medical progress (American Chronicle Oct. 5,). With millions of
dollars annually spent on such experiments unavailable for potentially
lifesaving initiatives such as epidemiological research or health and
nutrition education, the true value of animal experiments warrants
closer scrutiny.
...
When not subject to human manipulation, laboratory animals spend most
of their lives confined in small, barren cages, often in social
isolation. Our review of one hundred and ten scientific studies found
growing evidence that these conditions take a severe toll on the
animals' neurological and psychological health. Even so-called
'enriched' environments fail to ameliorate most of these deficits.[v]
Behavioural stereotypies--repetitive, unvarying and apparently
functionless behavior patterns that are believed to reflect animal
suffering--are common, occurring, for instance, in some 50% of all
laboratory housed mice.[vi]
...
If we are to consider ourselves an ethical, compassionate and
intelligent society, our considerable scientific and medical resources
should be directed at the best methods for alleviating both human and
animal suffering. Animal experiments are unlikely to either cure human
diseases nor eliminate ethical concerns. Instead, government and
industry should redirect the enormous funds spent annually on animal
experiments into the development and implementation of
scientifically-based non-animal alternatives.
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full story:
http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=2819
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