8 Human and Non-Human Animal Research

Before delving into ethics in research, it is important to define just what it is we are talking about as it relates to research with human subjects.  According to The University of California at Irvine (2015), a human subject is “a living individual about whom an investigator (whether professional or student) conducting research obtains: 1) data through intervention or interaction with the individual, or 2) identifiable private information).”  Non-human research subjects, on the other hand, are objects or entities that investigators manipulate or analyze in the process of conducting research.

According to the National Council on Ethics in Human Research (NCEHR)^[1], research on human fulfils many functions.  It creates new knowledge, it leads to the formation of policy, and the development of innovative products and processes that enhance human health, education and social development (NCEHR, n.d.).  As the NCEHR points out, researchers depend upon the willingness of individuals, organizations, communities, et cetera to willingly participate in their research. It is essential, therefore, to ensure that all research enhances and maintains the public trust in research. This can only be done through the highest of ethical research standards.

Likewise, research on non-human animals (animals) plays a vital role that has led to many scientific and medical advances.  However, the use of animals is increasingly the subject of considerable debate. This has led many countries to develop ethical frameworks, regulations, and/or legislation that aim to control and limit the pain and suffering of animals (Festing & Wilkinson, 2007). In Canada, the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC), an independent, non-profit organization, has established standards of animal ethics and care for those working with animals for scientific purposes.  The organization also assesses and certifies institutions working with animals for scientific purposes to ensure they are meeting the CCAC’s standards.