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A. I am not opposed to experiments which are designed
to help the animal or animals involved, such as untried veterinary techniques
which are attempting to save the life of the animal in question, nor
am I opposed to studies which observe the behavior of animals in their
natural habitat, such as the admirable work of Jane Goodall. All other
types of animal experimentation and testing are morally unacceptable.
While this ethical position stands on its own, there are serious scientific
and health issues involved as well. Vivisection has led us down countless
scientific dead ends, while detracting attention and funds from more
applicable scientific techniques. The practice of animal experimentation
and testing remains, not because it has been shown to be an accurate
and reliable means of research (which it has not), but rather as a result
of the momentum of blind tradition and peer pressure, and enormous promotion
from those with strong vested interests. Q. What about plants? Don’t plants have feelings too? A. It is very possible that plants have sensitivities
that we do not yet understand. Because plants do not have nervous systems
and cannot run away from predators, it has generally been assumed that
they do not experience pain and suffering. Recent scientific evidence
suggests that this assumption may be incorrect. However, we do know
that birds and other nonhuman vertebrates have well-developed nervous
systems and pain receptors the same as humans. Like us, they show pleasure
and pain and they present comparable evidence of fear and well-being.
Animals cry out in pain, they nurse wounded body parts, and they seek
to avoid those who have hurt them in the past.
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