In the Name of Science

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Recommended: Should animals be used for biomedical research

Throughout the years, animals have been used as models for studying human biology and as test subjects in the development of drugs and vaccines, all with the desire to improve human health. However, animal testing is not exclusive to biomedical research; animals are used as test subjects for psychological testing, agricultural research and cosmetic study, among others (AnimalsAustralia.org, 2012). Over one hundred million animals are burned, crippled and abused in labs every year and of those, 92% of the products that have been deemed safe and effective in animals, have failed human trials because of the dangers (AnimalsAustralia.org, 2012). Through this, it is clear that relying on the results that animal research provides is risky due to the obvious natural differences between humans and animals. However, the use of animals in biomedical research continues, in spite of the inconclusive results that have been produced (Dosomething.org). It is wrong to harm these animals to further our own desires. I can safely say that a majority of the public who might support animal testing would be against any harm coming to their pets. So why does it suddenly become morally acceptable when we stand to gain something? Therein lays the moral injustice in animal testing and what we, as people, are willing to accept in the name of science. Defined as “that action is best, which procures the greatest happiness for the greatest number,” (Pojman) utilitarianism is a theory that supports the use of animals in biomedical research as the results are beneficial to the whole of society (Isacat, 2008). Utilitarianism can be used to justify the cruelty and brutality used on these animals; as an excuse to harm individuals and minorities as long as the majo... ... middle of paper ... ...something.Org | Largest Organization For Teens And Social Cause'. Drhadwentrust.org,. 'DHT - Dr Hadwen Trust - UK's Leading Non-Animal Medical Research Charity'. N. p., Econlib.org,. 'Jeremy Bentham, An Introduction To The Principles Of Morals And Legislation, Chapter XVII | Library Of Economics And Liberty'. N. p., 2014. Isacat, Ben. 'How To Do Animal Rights - Utilitarianism'. Animalethics.org.uk. N. p., 2008. Murnaghan, Ian. 'Biomedical Research And Animal Testing'. Aboutanimaltesting.co.uk. N. p., 2014. Pippin, John J., and Kristie Sullivan. 'Dangerous Medicine: Examples Of Animal-Based “Safety” Tests Gone Wrong'. PCRM.org. Pojman, Louis P. Ethics. 1st ed. Belmont, Calif.: Wadsworth Pub. Co., 1990. Print. Shac.net,. 'SHAC >> Stop Huntingdon Animal Cruelty'. N. p., 2011. Wilson, Scott. 'Animals And Ethics'. Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy (2010): n. pag.

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