Animal Research

Question 1

3 arguments for animal use in labs

Answer 1

Fewer ethical issues e.g. informed consent

Mammalian studies generalise to humans as their brains are similar + some mammals have shorter breeding cycles so can study effects over generations

Behaviourists argue conditioning is the same in all animals so research generalises to humans

Question 2

3 arguments against animal use in labs

Answer 2

Higher cognitive function means ape studies don’t generalise to humans

In case of animals suffering, benefits may not outweigh harm caused

Animal research guidelines may not be effectively enforced. Many animal studies do not accurately report numbers used

Question 3

Outline the 3 key ethical arguments that go against animal use in lab research?

Answer 3

Pain and distress

Speciesism

Animal rights

Question 4

Outline the pain and distress ethical argument

Answer 4

Treaty of Lisbon 2009 declared all animals are sentient. Furthermore, sentience may not even matter as some disabled lack sentience but still can experience pain.

However, just responding to noxious stimuli doesn’t mean animals feel pain

Question 5

Outline the speciesism ethical argument?

Answer 5

Singer 1990 states speciesism is no different from racial or gender discrimination
VS
Gray 1991 says we have a special duty of care towards humans, speciesism is not equivalent to racism

Question 6

Outline animal rights ethical argument?

Answer 6

Singer says whatever produces greater good for the greater number is ethically acceptable (utilitarianism)

Regan 1984 says under no circumstances is animal research acceptable they have a right to respect.

CA: no responsibilities no rights

Question 7

BPS guidelines for animals in laboratories?

Answer 7

Confinement restraint stress and harm should be minimises

Different species should be considered

Optimise research design to minimize animals used

Environment should be appropriate to the needs of the species

Question 8

Outline the scientific procedures act (1986) and home office regulations?

Answer 8

Animals research requires licensed labs and researchers (only vertebrates)

3Rs (replace, reduce, refine): Animals replaced with suitable alternatives. If not possible then reduce number of animals used. Also refine methods so pain and lasting harm is reduced.

Question 9

3 arguments for animal use in labs?

Answer 9

Fewer ethical issues e.g. informed consent

Mammalian studies generalise to humans as their brains are similar + some mammals have shorter breeding cycles so can study effects over generations

Behaviourists argue conditioning is the same in all animals so research generalises to humans