Preface
This volume of the Perspectives monograph series expands on themes discussed in previous issues and explores new ones. As in earlier books, there are several critiques of nonhuman animal "models" of human diseases. Dr. Stephen R. Kaufman and colleagues review four animal models of degenerative neurological diseases, Dr. Eric Dunayer challenges the utility of animal models of muscular dystrophy, and Dr. Christopher D. Smith critiques a grant for cold injury research using a cat leg "preparation."
Dr. Coenraad F.M. Hendriksen suggests that alternatives exist, or could likely be developed, to substantially reduce animal use in vaccine production and control. Although he does not question the value of animal experimentation in general, he does recommend applying the principles of reduction, refinement, and replacement. His conservative viewpoint is shared by many who are concerned about animal welfare but do not advocate the complete replacement of animal experimentation with nonanimal research methods.
Drs. Marc Bekoff and Roger Ulrich voice concerns about psychology research using nonhuman animals. Bekoff discusses the difficulty of inferring other animals' thoughts from their behavior and explains how artifact can undermine both field and laboratory research. In exploring his own experiences as an experimental psychologist and the considerable suffering that he inflicted on other animals, Ulrich reveals how motivations such as the desire for approval and rank can outweigh scientific and moral considerations.
Stephen R. Kaufman disputes the validity of a report, completed in the mid-1970s, that concluded "basic research" has been integral to medical progress. Although beset with methodological problems, this study has been widely used to defend basic research.
The volume concludes with five reviews of books that address topics likely to interest Perspectives readers.