"Vivisection" Response

1. Is vivisection morally wrong?

2. What are the benefits of vivisection?

3. What can we do to end vivisection?

I wrote my last essay on the issue of vivisection, and in doing so briefly skimmed this article. After reading it in more depth, I have found even more evidence in supporting my essay, which I will use to expand my rough draft to my final draft. In essence, this piece talks about the morality behind vivisection. I found it very true when the author said that it was necessary for scientists to prove that what they were doing was inherently good, because it prevented harm to our own species. The line that stood out to me particularly was “If we find a man inflicting pain it is for him to prove that his action is right. If he cannot, he is a wicked man.”

What I found even more shocking is the idea that there may come a point in human history at which we will decide that certain human lives are more valuable than other certain lives, just as we view human life more important than animal life. This has been seen numerous times in the past with issues such as slavery, and even currently with issues surrounding racism. There are many aspects of this argument that play into every day life, even when people aren’t aware that it could be affecting them on a personal basis.

Personally, I believe that the idea of any form of vivisection is reprehensible and morally wrong, and reading this article strengthened that belief. I really enjoyed how the author closed his argument in saying that we needed to implement a distinct set of laws as to what type of animal testing was right and wrong, and from there we should begin to implement reforms. I believe this is a perfect and well thought out place to start.

Overall, I enjoyed the article and will use it in furthering my argument for my essay.