Vivisection

Before vivisection, chloroform was given to this sand frog so that it would not feel pain.

Activist against vivisection

Animal lab

Vivisection derives from the Latin terms vivus meaning "alive", and sectio which translates to "cutting". In its broadest sense, vivisection refers to any surgical or experimental procedure performed on a living organism, typically animals. It is frequently associated with, and occasionally used synonymously for, animal testing in general.

Controversies and Ethics

The term 'vivisection' is often employed by groups or individuals advocating against animal experimentation due to its perceived ethical implications. Such entities argue that vivisection is inhumane and unnecessary, promoting alternative methodologies for scientific inquiry that do not involve harming living creatures.

Historical Perspective

The history of vivisection is closely tied with the evolution of scientific medicine. In its early stages, vivisection was employed to understand anatomical structures and physiological processes, contributing significantly to advancements in biology and medicine. Despite its invaluable contributions, the ethical considerations surrounding the practice have spurred rigorous debate throughout history.

Current Practices and Regulations

In modern times, the practice of vivisection is tightly regulated in many jurisdictions. While it remains a fundamental part of biological and medical research, there are strict ethical guidelines and legal frameworks aimed at minimizing animal suffering and ensuring the practice is only employed where necessary and without viable alternatives. These regulatory frameworks often require that researchers seek alternatives to animal experimentation and ensure that any animal use is scientifically justified and humane.

See Also

• Animal testing
• Animal rights
• History of science
• Medical research
• Ethics in science and technology

More reading

• Yarri, Donna. The Ethics of Animal Experimentation, Oxford University Press U.S., 2005

Vivisection Resources
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