In this episode, host Dr. Dana Kolsky speaks with Dr. Adam Cardillini, an environmental scientist exploring the
interconnection between animal ethics, conservation, and societal change. Dr. Cardillini discusses his journey from conducting traditional scientific research — which involved ethically challenging practices with animals — to advocating for transformative changes in the way scientific research considers animal well-being and moral value.

The conversation centers around the need for transparency and reform in animal research practices. Dr. Cardillini critically examines the prevalent culture in scientific research that often denies the intrinsic value of animals, leading to ethically questionable practices covered under the guise of scientific necessity. He further emphasizes the importance of recognizing animals as "research partners."

Dive into their thought-provoking discussion on fostering more ethical relationships with animals and the environment.

Read the transcript here.

For more information on the effects of animal research on the environment, click here.
Learn about Dr. Cardillini's work on Google Scholar and visit his profiles at Deakin University and Panworks.

Join AFSA's Dr. Dana Kolsky and renowned neuroscientist Dr. Garet Lahvis as they delve into the ethical issues of animal research, with a focus on the mental wellbeing of animals in laboratories. Dr. Lahvis shares his journey from a key researcher to an advocate against animal confinement in laboratories. Explore the limitations of animal models in studying human conditions, understand the role of ethics committees, and consider alternatives to traditional research methods. This insightful discussion challenges the current scientific practices and highlights the need for a more compassionate and innovative approach.

Read the episode transcript here.

About our guest:

Dr. Garrett Lahvis is a former professor of behavioral neuroscience at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland. He holds degrees in ecology and evolutionary biology, natural resources, toxicology, and immunology. Dr. Lahvis has published over 40 scientific papers and received two literary awards plus a Pushcart Prize nomination. He is renowned for his research on social emotions such as empathy in mice. His journey into questioning the validity and ethics of animal research models due to their inadequate living conditions led him to cease his work in animal research, steering his expertise towards authorship with a forthcoming book for the University of Chicago Press.

Dr. Lahvis outlines his journey departing from traditional research in favor of advocating for the dignity and welfare of animals and highlighting the conflict scientists face between their research outcomes and the conditions laboratory animals endure. His perspectives challenge the norms within scientific communities and urge a reevaluation of fundamental research approaches, calling for the acknowledgement of the intricate experiences of animals.

Visit www.animalfreesci.org.au for more information on animal testing, non-animal research models and more.

Follow Dr Garet Lahvis:

– garetlahvis.com

– X: x.com/GLahvis,

– Bluesky: garetlahvis.bsky.social

Wherever you get your podcasts, be sure to tune in to AFSA for more thought-provoking content!

Join Dr. Dana Kolsky on the AFSA podcast as she delves into the world of animal rights activism with Nathan McGovern from Animal Rising. Discover insights into their controversial campaigns against animal testing, particularly targeting the MBR Acres beagle breeding facility, and the legal ramifications that followed. McGovern shares his journey into activism, the power of open rescue, and the future of animal testing in the UK. This episode highlights the complexities of ethical protest, legal consequences, and the evolving landscape of animal rights advocacy.

For more information on Animal Rising and their campaigns head to https://www.animalrising.org/
Or, visit their Facebook and Instagram.

To see AFSA's campaign for mandatory rehoming of research dogs and cats click here.

For the full show transcript click here.

Thanks for listening!