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[The ethics of animal experimentation]
1Université Pierre Mendès France-Grenoble 2, UFR SH, Bât. ARSH 1251, av. Centrale, D.U. de St Martin d'Hères, BP 47, 38040 Grenoble cedex 9. jean-yves.goffi@upmf-grenoble.fr
Summary
This paper examines ethical viewpoints on animal experimentation, from unconditional approval to strict prohibition. It argues that the core debate centers on the perceived value of scientific endeavors.
Area of Science:
- Ethics in scientific research
- Animal welfare and rights
- Philosophy of science
Context:
- The ethical landscape of animal experimentation is complex, with diverse philosophical stances.
- Historical perspectives range from unconditional acceptance to outright prohibition.
- Key figures like Claude Bernard, Peter Singer, Tom Regan, and Gary Francione represent distinct ethical frameworks.
Purpose:
- To define animal experimentation and explore its ethical dimensions.
- To analyze three primary ethical approaches: unconditional approval, conditional approval, and strict prohibition.
- To identify the underlying value judgments influencing stances on animal experimentation.
Summary:
- The paper defines animal experimentation and critically evaluates three ethical frameworks: unconditional approval (Bernard), conditional approval (Singer), and strict prohibition (Regan, Francione).
- It posits that the central ethical conflict in animal experimentation revolves around the intrinsic value assigned to the scientific enterprise.
- The discussion highlights how differing valuations of scientific progress shape the acceptance or rejection of animal use in research.
Impact:
- Provides a structured overview of ethical debates surrounding animal experimentation.
- Offers a philosophical lens to understand the varying perspectives on animal research.
- Encourages critical reflection on the value of scientific pursuits in relation to animal ethics.
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