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Animals And Cosmetics

April 16, 2009
Animal Experimentation and Cosmetics

Many animals are used in scientific and medical research. They often undergo cruel methods of testing and suffer greatly as a result. Animal experimentation is both cruel and unnecessary and humans have no right to put innocent animals through such torture. Scientists often do not benefit from testing on animals as they are so different from us and react differently to drugs. Results obtained from experimenting on animals are unreliable. Every year, cosmetic companies kill millions of animals to test their products. These companies claim they test on animals to establish the safety of their products and ingredients for consumers. This paper examines my opinion on animal testing for the purpose of cosmetics and how companies can use alternative methods to sell such products.
According to Peter Singer, “animals have inherent rights, but rather that the interests of animals should be given their due consideration. Although there are similarities between humans and other animals, there are also many differences in abilities and interests. It is not expected that humans and nonhumans should be treated in exactly the same way; the nature of the being must be taken into account.” (4) I agree completely with Singer’s position. Many humans see no problem with the exploitation of other animals since humans are clearly rationally superior. The belief in human superiority is no basis for discounting the interests of animals, whether or not they come into conflict with human interests.
The practice of testing animals for cosmetic purposes is particularly controversial because animals may experience discomfort, suffering and ultimately die, all in the name of aesthetics and looking good. Thus, it is this aspect of animal tests that draws an enormous amount of criticism, both in the United States and internationally. In my opinion, there are many people including myself, who support animal testing for...