Task 2 · · 18 samples

Some people argue that all experimentation on animals is bad and should be outlawed. However, others believe that important scientific discoveries can be made from animal experiments. Can experimentation on animals be justified? Are there any alternatives?

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Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • Set ethical conditions for any permitted study: a significant potential benefit, no adequate alternative, and measures to minimise suffering.
  • Compare alternatives such as human cell or tissue studies, computer simulations and analysis of clinical data, while noting that their usefulness depends on the research question.
  • Distinguish limited, potentially valuable research from studies that cause serious suffering without a clear medical purpose.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce the debate and state a qualified position.
  2. Explain when animal experiments might be justified and what limits should apply.
  3. Present alternatives and briefly discuss their current limitations.
  4. Conclude with a clear policy: last-resort use under strict safeguards, and a ban on cruel or unnecessary studies.
Useful vocabulary & examples
a last resort
An option used only when other suitable approaches are unavailable.

Animal testing should be considered only as a last resort.

minimise suffering
Reduce pain or distress as much as possible.

Researchers should follow procedures that minimise suffering.

computer simulations
Computer-based models used to represent or test processes.

Computer simulations may help researchers assess some effects of a treatment.

a compelling purpose
A strong and persuasive reason for doing something.

Experiments that cause harm should require a compelling purpose.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

355 words · Illustrative target band

The ethical implications of animal experimentation have sparked considerable debate. While some individuals contend that all forms of experimentation on animals are inhumane and should be prohibited, others argue that such research is crucial for groundbreaking scientific advancements. This leads to the central question: can the use of animals in research be justified, and are there suitable alternatives? The ethica…

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AI-completed learning example

358 words · Illustrative target band

The ethical implications of animal experimentation have incited a contentious debate among various stakeholders. Proponents of banning such practices argue that utilizing animals as subjects in research is inherently cruel, while opponents assert that these experiments are critical to advancing scientific knowledge. This essay will articulate a rationale for the continuation of animal experimentation and consider the…

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AI-completed learning example

361 words · Illustrative target band

It is claimed that animal experimentation should be prohibited due to its cruelty. However, others argue that animal experiments are attributed to significant scientific purposes and advancements. From my perspective, I believe that using animals for experimentation should be limited and replaced by several viable alternative measures, such as human-based research and computer modeling. On the ethical side, avoidable…

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