Should we Replace Animals with Humans in Research.pptVIP

Overview Abstract Definitions Assumptions Human Pesticide Toxicity Testing HPTT Arguments against HPTT Arguments for HPTT Objections Conclusions Abstract I argue for three claims: Our intuitive rejection of human pesticide toxicity testing HPTT is not justified; 2. In large part, this is because cost-benefit analyses of HPTT have not adequately weighed the costs to research animals; and 3. As we seek to replace, reduce, and refine the numbers of animals used in research we ought to consider using more humans. Definitions Pesticides: Naturally derived or synthetically produced substances designed to kill, suppress or alter the life cycle of unwanted organisms. Modern industrial agriculture: A capital-intensive global system of hybrid seeds, high chemical fertilizer and irrigation inputs to produce high volumes of commodity crops fed to animals killed for meat. Definitions Two-level utilitarianism: Always choose the course of action that results in the best consequences. At the level of critical thinking, we ought to function as act-utilitarians. In everyday life, however, we ought to function as deontological thinkers. Assumptions Most developing countries have agricultural policies aimed at accommodating increased demands for meat. Crop yield increases are not keeping pace with global food demands. It is unlikely modern agriculture will be soon replaced by a post-modern agriculture e.g., small scale, family-owned and operated units using low-chemical inputs, renewable organic methods to produce regionally transported vegetables, soy, fruits, and other non-meat based products, etc. Assumptions Global demand for food could easily double…. Of particular concern are Asia and Africa … over the next 50 years…” Many of the genetic resources required for the development of such improved crops are being destroyed. A number of the ecosystem services underpinning productivity are under increasing threat. The environmental and human health consequ