Not everyone agrees with animal research. Many people have an ethical or scientific position against it (though we would question the latter), and although they have the right to disagree we believe they should do so on an informed basis. That is one of the great merits of debating – it allows (if implemented properly) individuals to listen to both sides and make a choice for themselves. This is why we are very supportive of a new initiative by the International Debate Education Association (IDEA) UK, and Understanding Animal Research (UAR) to organise a series of debates across the UK and beyond during this week.
The Big Animal Research Debate has organised over 30 university debating societies to hold a debate on the motion “This House Would Ban All Forms of Animal Research”. All of these debates will take place between the 14 and 18 October with many schools also joining in. Most are being held in the UK, though Trinity College Dublin (Ireland) and James Madison University (Virginia, USA) are notable additions.
The event has gained the endorsements of politicians, science societies and some organisations opposing animal research. However, not all have been so supportive, with some animal rights groups choosing to boycott the event. In essence, their own argument suffers when they are not prepared to put it forward. It is worth reading Alex Cavell, one of the main organisers, robust response to those organisations.
Speaking of Research founder, Tom Holder, will be debating the issue at Imperial College London on Thursday against the former BUAV and PETA campaigner, Alistair Currie. Both sides will be supported by student speakers. We will no doubt report back on it.