ethical considerations

• minimalist position


  animal research is accepted under certain conditions depending on:

  • value of research
  • distress to the animal
  • kind of animal
• abolitionist position


  absolutely no acceptable form of animal research

  • animals have the same rights as humans
  • keeping animals is equivalent to slavery
  • killing animals is murder
• How can an ethical approach to animal research be controlled?

  Animal welfare

  • animals used only in worthwhile experiments
  • all necessary steps are taken to minimise pain and distress experienced by the experimental animals
  • all possible alternatives to the use of animals are considered
• Animals act 1986

  • reduce number of animals used
  • refine procedures to minimise pain and suffering
  • replace animal experiments with alternatives where possible