Walter Hadwen

British physician and anti-vivisectionist

Walter Hadwen

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Dr. Walter Hadwen

Walter Robert Hadwen (3 August 1854 – 27 December 1932) was a British physician, pharmacist, and prominent anti-vivisectionist. He was known for his strong opposition to animal experimentation and his advocacy for alternative methods in medical research.

Early Life and Education

Walter Hadwen was born in Woolwich, London. He initially trained as a pharmacist before pursuing a career in medicine. Hadwen studied at the Bristol Medical School and later at the University of Edinburgh, where he obtained his medical degree.

Medical Career

Hadwen began his medical practice in Gloucester, where he became well-known for his work in public health and his opposition to vaccination. He was a member of the British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection (BUAV) and served as its president from 1896 until his death.

Anti-Vivisection Advocacy

Hadwen was a vocal critic of vivisection, the practice of performing operations on live animals for the purpose of experimentation. He argued that such practices were not only cruel but also scientifically flawed. Hadwen believed that medical research could advance without the use of animals and advocated for the development of alternative methods.

Publications and Lectures

Throughout his career, Hadwen wrote extensively on the subject of vivisection and public health. He delivered numerous lectures across the United Kingdom, where he shared his views on the ethical and scientific issues surrounding animal experimentation.

Legacy

Walter Hadwen's work had a significant impact on the anti-vivisection movement in the UK. His efforts contributed to the ongoing debate about the ethical treatment of animals in scientific research. The Hadwen Trust, now known as Animal Free Research UK, was established in his honor to promote non-animal research methods.

Related pages

• Vivisection
• British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection
• Animal Free Research UK
• Public health