Animals and Scientific Research, Outline Example

Introduction

1. The pace of progress in health and medical science has been astonishing, especially over the last century
   • Much of the progress could not have been possible without experiments on animals
2. Scientific experiments on animals attract controversy despite several benefits
   • Critics argue it is unethical

 Thesis Statement: Despite the sensitive nature of the issue, scientific experiment on animals should be allowed because the benefits of doing so outweigh the costs

 Body

1. Scientific experiments on animals are unavoidable
   • There are biological similarities between humans and other species
   • This is the most suitable of all options
   • This solution imposes the minimum amount of financial and social costs upon the society
2. The benefits to the society have been tremendous
   • Experiments on animals have helped us completely or nearly eradicate many life-threatening or life-changing health conditions
   • Progress on existing medical challenges is also dependent upon experiments on animals
3. The standards regarding animal experiments have improved significantly
   • Fewer animals are experimented upon now
   • Greater care is taken to minimize pain and other forms of sufferings

Counter-argument

1. Experiments on animals are unethical
   • Response

i. Science doesn’t deal with ethical questions

ii. Not doing experiments on animals may also be unethical

iii. Standards and procedures regarding animal treatment have improve significantly and will continue to do so

Conclusion

1. Experiments on animals is a controversial issue
2. Ethics is often cited as a reason for opposition to experiments on animals
3. There are always some costs but the benefits in this case outweigh the costs to the society
4. While there is still some animal suffering, things have improved significantly over time