Animal Ethics - Science Cafe
There are many controversial topics in research including the use of stem cells and animals in research. At the June 9, 2009 Science Cafe, Dr. David Friedman gave a talk entitled “Using Animals in Research: What are the Issues”. The talk was presented as an informal discussion in which the audience was given the chance to ask any and all of their questions related to the use of animals in research. Dr. Friedman provided both sides of the issue in order to help dispel some of the myths surrounding animal research. Some of the major topics discussed included the following:
- The numerous regulations that oversee and govern animal research including the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee and the United States Department of Agriculture.
- The types of animals used at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center and his research.
- Where the animals used in research originate and what happens to them at the end of studies.
- Why it is important to use animals as well as the moral burden the people carry that work with these animals.
- The animal rights activists‘ viewpoints from both ends of the spectrum.
- The recent threats made against animal researchers.
Dr. Friedman did a good job at presenting information and viewpoints surrounding a controversial practice in research. This was the fourth Science Cafe held in Winston-Salem and was jointly sponsored by Sciworks and Sigma Xi. The Science Cafes are held at Foothills Brewing Co. in downtown Winston-Salem. This particular event was a little more difficult to hear do to some other concurrent parties, but the event organizers are continually trying to improve the venue and are focusing on the sound for the next date.
Remember to come out to the next Science Cafe on August 18, 2009 at Foothills Brewing Co. to hear about “The Curiosities of Nanotechnology” by Dr. Kevin Conley.