Guide to Animals in Science and Research
From The Observatory
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Editor: Reynard Loki
Source: Earth Food Life Project
The Observatory’s Guide to Animals in Science and Research examines the role of nonhuman animals in scientific experimentation and biomedical development. It explores the ethical, regulatory, and scientific debates surrounding animal testing, including concerns about welfare, transparency, and the limits of animal models in predicting human outcomes. The guide highlights practices involving primates and laboratory animals, as well as growing calls for reform, improved oversight, and the development of alternative research methods. By connecting policy, science, and ethics, it offers a clearer understanding of how animals are used in research—and what a more humane and effective system might look like.
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By Reynard Loki | From Earth Food Life Project
The United States continues to rely heavily on primates in research compared to many other countries that have adopted stricter limits or bans. Differences in regulation and public policy highlight growing international divergence over the ethics and necessity of primate experimentation.
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By Lisa Jones-Engel | From Earth Food Life Project
Monkeys used in biomedical research are transported across long distances under conditions that raise concerns about safety, disease transmission, and oversight. Gaps in federal regulation leave questions about accountability and the risks posed to both animals and the public.
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By Reynard Loki | From Earth Food Life Project
Laboratory mice remain central to biomedical research despite significant biological differences from humans that can limit the reliability of results. This reliance reflects both scientific tradition and practical constraints, even as alternative methods and technologies continue to develop.
