Some people feel that animal testing may be necessary, but we need to be merciful. Do you agree or disagree? You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic. Examine the arguments in favor of and against animal experiments, and come to a conclusion on this issue. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Animal testing may be necessary, but we need to be merciful
Animal testing may be necessary, but we need to be merciful
Every year, millions of animals undergo painful suffering or death as a result of scientific research into the effects of drugs, food additives, cosmetics and other chemical products. While most people think animal testing is necessary, others are upset by what they see as needless suffering.
Many medical treatments and procedures are developed through experiments on animals. Since animals share many features with humans, scientists use animals to test the safety and effectiveness of newly developed drugs before pilot testing on small groups of patients. Medical teams practice new operating techniques such as transplants on animals. Without animal testing, many procedures or new drugs would be extremely unsafe.
However, many people are concerned that animals are suffering unnecessarily and cruelly. They do not believe that every new drug needs to be tested on animals, especially with the huge database of knowledge and modern computer models. They also are worried that many animal tests are ineffective, pointing out that many drugs have had to be withdrawn from the market despite extensive testing. They particularly feel that animal testing should not be used for non-essential products such as cosmetics, shampoos, soaps, and cleaning products. Furthermore, some campaigners would like to see certain tests replaced and more humane methods used.
To sum up, we need to make sure that the millions of animals which are used for testing new products are treated with the minimum possible suffering. Although some animal testing may be unavoidable at present, treating our fellow creatures as mercifully as possible will demonstrate our humanity.
