Researching Animal Research: What the Humanities and Social Sciences Can Contribute to Laboratory Animal Science and Welfare

Animal experiments are a significant part of scientific research, generating new knowledge and clinical treatments but also sparking societal debate. This book explores how the humanities and social sciences can help us understand the ethical, social, and cultural implications of animal research. It develops the idea of the animal research nexus and examines how connections and disconnections between different elements have shaped historical practices and policies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2024
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Every year, around 80 million scientific procedures are conducted on animals worldwide, offering immense potential for generating new insights into biology and developing innovative clinical treatments. However, these endeavors also spark ongoing societal debates, reflecting the complex ethical and societal considerations surrounding animal research.

In this comprehensive book, the authors aim to shed light on the multifaceted aspects of animal procedures and their impact on society. By integrating insights from the humanities and social sciences, the book explores the various dimensions of animal research, including constitutional forms of research governance, diverse institutional cultures of care, the professional careers of scientists and veterinarians, collaborations with patients and publics, and the use of research animals, particularly those bred for experiments or surplus to requirements.

Through the development of the concept of the animal research nexus, the book delves into the intricate connections and disconnections between these different elements, tracing their historical evolution and shaping the current practice and policy of animal research in the United Kingdom. The authors examine how these interactions have influenced each other, highlighting both the positive outcomes and challenges associated with animal research.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of animal procedures and their implications for society. By integrating diverse perspectives and employing a multidisciplinary approach, the authors provide a comprehensive analysis of this critical field, offering valuable insights into the ethical, social, and scientific considerations surrounding animal research.

Weight: 732g
Dimension: 147 x 223 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526165756