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Animal Use Position Statement

Position Statement on Animal Use
Human Anatomy & Physiology Society
(Adopted July 28, 1995)
(Revised January 13, 2001)

It is the position of the Human Anatomy and Physiology Society that dissection and the manipulation of animal tissues and organs are essential elements in scientific investigation and introduce students to the excitement and challenge of their future careers.

The Human Anatomy and Physiology Society (HAPS) is a national organization of science educators dedicated to the task of providing instruction of the highest quality in human anatomy and physiology.  A fundamental tenet of science is the ordered process of inquiry requiring careful and thoughtful observation by the investigator.  As subdivisions of biology, both anatomy and physiology share a long history of careful and detailed examination, exploration and critical inquiry into the structure and function of the animal body.  Consistent with the origins and nature of scientific inquiry, HAPS endorses the use of animals as essential  to the laboratory experiences in both human anatomy and human physiology.

Historically, the principal tool of investigation in anatomy has been dissection.  A properly directed dissection experience goes beyond naming structures and leads the student to conclusions and insights about the nature and relatedness of living organisms that are not otherwise possible. To succeed in their future careers, students must become thoroughly familiar with anatomical structures, their design features and their relationships to one another.  Dissection is based on observational and kinesthetic learning that instills a recognition and appreciation for the three dimensional structure of the animal body, the interconnections between organs and organ systems, and the uniqueness of biological material.  While anatomical models, interactive computer programs, and multimedia materials may enhance the dissection experience, they should not be considered as equivalent alternatives or substitutes for whole animal dissection.  HAPS supports the use of biological specimens for anatomical study provided their use is in strict compliance with federal legislation and the guidelines of the National Institutes of Health and the United States Department of Agriculture and that such use fulfills clearly defined educational objectives.

Physiology experiments involving live animals provide an excellent opportunity to learn the basic elements specific to scientific investigation and experimentation.  It is here that students pose questions, propose hypotheses, develop technical skills, collect data, and analyze results.  It is here that they learn to remain focused on the details of procedure and technique which may influence the outcome of the experiment and the responses of the animal.  When faced with unexpected and even erroneous results, students develop and improve their critical thinking and problem solving skills.  Computer simulations and video programs are useful tools that help students acquire a basic understanding of physiologic principles.  However, due to the inherent variability and unpredictable nature of biological responses, such programs fail to fully depict the uniqueness of living organisms and should not be viewed as equivalent alternatives or substitutes for live animal experiments.  HAPS supports the use of biological specimens in physiology experiments provided their use is in strict compliance with federal legislation and the guidelines of the National Institutes of Health and the United States Department of Agriculture and that such use fulfills clearly defined educational objectives.

Science educators have in common a respect and reverence for the natural world and therefore have a responsibility to share this with their students.  They must communicate the importance of a serious approach to the study of anatomy and physiology.  HAPS contends that science educators should retain responsibility for making decisions regarding the educational uses of animals.  Furthermore, the Human Anatomy and Physiology Society opposes any legislation or administrative policy that would erode the educator's role in decision-making."

(Last updated on 7-7-2002)