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Discuss both views HealthNatureSociety Essay #69
Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people say that it is acceptable to test medicine intended for people on animals. Others, however, believe that it is not right to use animals in this research.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Use the plan, then compare with Band 9.
318 words · 4 paragraphs
Introduction

Paraphrase the two opposing views on animal testing for medicine. State own opinion, agreeing that advantages outweigh ethical issues.

In the realm of medical research, there exists a dichotomy of perspectives: one advocating for animal testing as a necessary means to ensure human safety, and the other condemning it as unethical. My stance aligns with the former, as I believe the benefits derived from animal testing outweigh the ethical concerns.

Body 1 · View 1

Topic sentence: Argument against animal testing is based on moral grounds. Point 1: Violation of animal rights (right to live without pain), causing discomfort/distress. Example: Draize test. Point 2: Unreliable due to biological differences, leading to incorrect results. Example: Thalidomide.

Those who oppose animal testing argue from a moral standpoint. They contend that animals, like humans, possess the right to live without suffering, and that subjecting them to medical experiments infringes upon this right. To illustrate, the Draize test, a notorious procedure used in toxicity testing, often results in severe discomfort and distress for the animals involved, which many deem unacceptable. Furthermore, critics argue that animal testing is not always reliable, as the biological differences between humans and animals can lead to inaccurate results. Thalidomide, a drug tested on animals and deemed safe, caused severe birth defects when used by pregnant women, highlighting the potential pitfalls of animal testing.

Body 2 · View 2

Topic sentence: Author's belief that animal testing is essential for medical progress. Point 1: Safe way to test drugs before human trials, reducing risk. Example: Insulin creation (tested on dogs). Point 2: Allows study of complex biological systems in controlled setting, leading to discoveries (cancer, Alzheimer's).

Despite these valid concerns, I maintain that animal testing plays a crucial role in advancing medical science. Firstly, it provides a viable method for initial drug testing before human trials, reducing potential risks to human subjects. For instance, the development of insulin, which has saved countless lives, was made possible through initial testing on dogs. Secondly, animal testing allows for the study of complex biological systems in a controlled environment, which is not possible with alternative methods such as cell cultures. This has led to breakthroughs in understanding diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's, thereby paving the way for potential cures.

Conclusion

Summarize main points: Acknowledge ethical issues/potential inaccuracies, but reiterate that benefits (risk reduction, scientific advancement) make it necessary. Restate opinion about the importance of animal testing for life-saving drugs and understanding diseases.

In conclusion, while the ethical implications and potential inaccuracies associated with animal testing are significant, I believe the benefits it offers in terms of risk reduction and scientific understanding render it a necessary practice. The development of life-saving drugs like insulin and the progress made in understanding complex diseases underscore the value of animal testing in medical research.

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