Research

Essay by PaperNerd ContributorCollege, Undergraduate July 2001

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The marvels of science and technology touch our lives every day and although we don't often think about it, they relate to everything we see, do, or know. Over the years, scientist have continued to build upon the discoveries of generations before them. Through their quest to understand the human condition, our lives have been tremendously improved. Major accomplishments in just about every area of science have set the stage for greater discoveries in the years to come. One of the main scientific researches for finding life-saving answers is the use of animals. I think it is a very necessary practice in order to achieve greater knowledge, not only in the fight against the worlds deadly diseases but as well as the improvements in what we know today.

Over the vast number of scientific findings made over the last century, none have improved human health and longevity more than the developments that have occurred through biomedical research using animals.

Yet, we don't often consider how we benefited from these discoveries or what our lives would be like without them. Because many biological similarities exist between many animals and human beings, scientist can understand complicated human life systems and observe the effects of disease, drugs, and medical treatments on the human body by studying laboratory animals. Such observations in mice, dogs, monkeys, or other species are the primary way scientist can make accurate projections of what will happen when the same drug or treatment is done on humans. About one percent of the animals used are primates, which includes monkeys and chimpanzees (1). Because these species are closest in genetic make-up and in many physical and behavioral traits, some people are more concerned about their use in research than about the use of mice or rats.

Animal rights activist, as well...