Humans use various animal species, from insects to mammals, in scientific research and experiments. This fact has long been the subject of intense debate between those who advocate for the rights of animals and those who support the continuation of their involvement. Even though conducting experiments with animals for the humans’ benefit seems morally wrong, they are critical for understanding the biology of humans and animals and the creation of medications.
Animals are involved in research and experiments for several significant reasons. In particular, they have many biological similarities with humans and are susceptible to the same diseases (American Psychological Society, n.d.). Consequently, the experiments help learn more about animal and human health problems and develop the safest treatments. Moreover, scientists use animals only when necessary, and when it is too unethical or inappropriate to involve humans (American Psychological Society, n.d.). For example, scientists can carefully adjust the environment around animals to the experiment’s needs and track the effect within several generations since many species’ life cycles are shorter (“Why animal research?” n.d.). Scientific findings achieved in this way are used not only for people but also in veterinary settings, giving animals the opportunity for a happy life. At the same time, scientists are obliged to provide suitable conditions for the experiment participants. However, without the urgent need, various animals are not involved.
Thus, there are significant reasons for the involvement of animals in scientific experiments. At the same time, scientists must maintain an ethical attitude towards them, providing the necessary living conditions and not using them in experiments without urgent need. Animal involvement is required due to the similarity of biological features, particularly diseases for which the search for drugs is underway. Moreover, scientific achievements are used not only for the benefit of humans but also for other animals.
References
American Psychological Society. (n.d.). Why do scientists use animals in research?Web.
Why animal research? (n.d.). Stanford Medicine. Web.