The Freedom of Speech Paradox

The world is a complex mix of competing views. Politicians and pressure groups have fought long and hard to find a balance between the desire for free speech, and the need to limit the voices of extremism and irresponsibility within our communities. Few would condemn the arrest of someone who shouts "fire" in a crowded, … Continue reading The Freedom of Speech Paradox

A Proposal for the Labeling of Medicines

In a recent poll conducted by Zogby, 2,100 adults in the U.S. were asked the following question. Do you agree or disagree with medical and scientific research that requires lab animals? The results showed  a similar outcome to that of other recent polls. About 52% of the population approve of animal research in various degrees, about … Continue reading A Proposal for the Labeling of Medicines

Ignorance or Deception?

Animal rights activists may want to start cooling down their engines. Apparently, by 2050 we can expect the complete elimination of animal use in science. At least, this is the prediction made by Dr. Andrew Rowan, Chief Scientific Officer of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) in a recent article that appeared in … Continue reading Ignorance or Deception?

Fanning the flames of fear

Over the New Year’s weekend, the people of Los Angeles were gripped by a rash of arsons that targeted vehicles and homes. The fires sent people scurrying from bed in the middle of the night, with children in arms, in a desperate attempt to avoid harm. An understandable fear gripped the community, with people parking … Continue reading Fanning the flames of fear

Being Humane

There are differences. Humans can transcend their biological lives in ways that other animals cannot. Humans can study, understand and challenge nature by means of technological might, in ways other animals cannot. Humans can store knowledge in perpetual form and secure its benefits for all future generations, in ways other animals cannot. Evolution resulted in our … Continue reading Being Humane

Animal People’s Statement on Animal Rights Extremism

In this holiday season Animal People reminds us all that we are privileged to live in a democratic society, where different points of view can be expressed, discussed and debated freely, and where violence has no place as a tool to advance social change. Speaking of Research welcomes and applauds this statement.  We hope the … Continue reading Animal People’s Statement on Animal Rights Extremism

Best of Friends: University of Texas Professor helps to fund Extremism

Regular readers of this blog will be familiar with the activities of Dr. Steve Best, Professor of Philosophy at the University of Texas at El Paso and long time supporter of animal rights extremism. Indeed, only last month we discussed his support for campaigns of harassment and intimidation against students and scientists, prompted by a recent … Continue reading Best of Friends: University of Texas Professor helps to fund Extremism

What Cost Savings? A Closer Look at the Great Ape Protection and Cost Savings Act of 2011

The status and future of chimpanzee research in the US are at the heart of much discussion lately in both scientific and public (also here and here) spheres.  A committee convened by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) to consider the issue held a number of meetings and is expected to report its findings to the … Continue reading What Cost Savings? A Closer Look at the Great Ape Protection and Cost Savings Act of 2011