Hacker News Reader

Comment by Andrew_nenakhov | Hacker News Reader

You better not know what else scientists do to rats. And please, don't even start on the argument that they do it for science and not for entertainment. Entertainment in the form of science fiction is crucial for inspiring new generations of scientists.

View on HN

> You better not know what else scientists do to rats.

Most people know what scientists do to animals—there have been enough awareness campaigns over the years. Animal experiments are tolerated, and usually strictly regulated [1], because they can potentially improve the lives of people.

> Entertainment in the form of science fiction is crucial for inspiring new generations of scientists.

I don't see why that (if it is true at all) is a reason to abuse animals for movies. If you wanted, you could make 'inspiring' science fiction showing harm to animals by using special effects.

[1]: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A...

Would this technically count as science, given that it was a real test of perfluorocarbon breathing and that it was documented?

It sounds like the next generation of scientists could benefit from inspirational films showing less animal cruelty.

If you insist on knives without any blood, you'll be looking for a very long time.

Scientists don't abuse or cause distress or panic in animals, just FYI. There are very strict rules around it.

Simply not true. There are some rules to limit the amount of abuse or distress for some types on animal, but that doesn't prevent anywhere near all of it.

Ive done animal experiments. All the rats were unconscious.

I've assisted with animal experiments as well, they were not unconscious.

Then you’re aware of the standards? Any discomfort has to be justified by the value of the data?

And generally if you can relieve discomfort then it’s a requirement?

The fact you said “limit the abuse” makes me think you aren’t that familiar. No “abuse” is allowed.

Just be because abuse has been justified doesn't make it not abuse.

Why do I have to think of the Apes, Dogs, and cats with a plug in their skull, for neuroscience? What about the countless bunnies and dogs, used for 'dermatologically tested' label for cosmetics, wet wipes, whatever, by rubbing that stuff in their eyes?

One strict ruler up yours!

Reply on news.ycombinator.com