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Animal testing: Is it still morally justifiable?

Opinions are divided on this topic. The fact is that animal experiments have led to important medical breakthroughs in the past, and not just in terms of vaccines or medicines. On the other hand, however, there is clearly the question of ethics in relation to animal rights, which seem incompatible with animal testing. In the 21st century, there are also good alternatives.

While in some countries animal testing is a standard procedure, not only in medicine but also for cosmetic products, for example, there is a strict directive in the EU. This aims to completely replace procedures on live animals for scientific purposes as soon as this is possible. From a scientific point of view, animal testing is not always transferable to humans. In addition, there are now innovative methods such as in-vitro tests and computer-aided models.

What is your personal position on this topic? In your opinion, what are the arguments against and in favor of animal testing? Should certain animal species, such as great apes, be better protected in this regard? Which alternative methods do you find particularly promising? We look forward to your input!