The Ethics of Research involving Animals
Introduction
There is considerable discomfort about the use of animals in research, but also a widespread acceptance of the need to do more medical research, which currently involves the use of animals. The Nuffield Council recognised that people feel very deeply about research involving animals and established a Working Party in 2003 to encourage a rigorous ethical debate on the topic.
The Working Party considered questions such as:
- Does research involving animals yield information which is applicable to humans?
- Are there valid alternatives?
- What are the ethical implications of the rising trend in the number of genetically modified animals?
- Are there morally relevant distinctions to be made between different species, such as mice, rats and monkeys?
- Can the welfare of different animals be assessed reliably?
Members of the Working Party brought a variety of perspectives to the discussion of this controversial topic, and took part in an open and informed debate of the issues over two years.
Last Updated Mon, 16 June 2008
