Cassidy's Creative Corner: Should zoos be abolished?
Zoos have been a controversial topic for a while now. The main question is are they inhumane? Some argue that zoos force animals to live in stressful conditions. While others may argue that zoos can raise awareness on environmental problems and protect endangered species.
While it is true that zoos remove animals from their natural habitats, and social structures, they have the ability to protect many animals from poaching, and can teach people to be more eco-friendly after learning about the animals. However, these animals are trapped in environments unnatural from their own, and some zoos only exist for profit…not for the good of the animals. These zoos can be cruel towards the animals, and can become crowded very quickly. From an ethical standpoint, zoos are inherently wrong, and animals should not be held in captivity.
From another standpoint, a zoo’s research can be extremely helpful to wildlife. By studying certain animals, we can create a positive change. Other than that, and the few pros I listed previously, there isn’t a lot of good about zoos. Additionally, animals aren’t benefiting greatly. If anything, it’s just hurting them. Zoos also don’t educate the public enough to justify keeping these animals captive.
According to Britannica procon.org…“A review published in Animal Studies Repository concluded, “to date there is no compelling or even particularly suggestive evidence for the claim that zoos and aquariums promote attitude change, education, and interest in conservation in visitors.” Even a study widely cited to justify the argument that zoos educate the public stated, “there was no overall statistically significant change in understanding [of ecological concepts] seen” because visitors know a lot about ecology before going to the zoo.”
Zoo confinement is also psychologically damaging to these animals. “A study of captive chimpanzees found that “abnormal behavior is endemic in the population,” and includes behaviors such as eating feces, twitching, rocking back and forth, plucking hair, pacing, vomiting, and self-mutilation, among others. The study concluded that the cause of such behavior could be mental health issues.”
In conclusion, zoos are inhumane, and should be abolished. While there are a few pros, the cons trump many of them. Zoos are damaging to the animals they confine, and are usually only used for money without taking the wellness of the animals into account.
Sources:
Environmental Conscience: https://environmental-conscience.com/zoos-pros-cons/
Britannica ProCon: https://www.procon.org/headlines/zoos-top-3-pros-and-cons/
