Zoos are inhumane and should be abolished.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

The ethical implications surrounding the existence of zoos continue to spark contentious debates and some opine that they are inhuman and should not exist. I am in staunch agreement that zoos, due to their inherent inhumanity, should be abolished for compelling reasons that challenge their ethical standing.

Primarily, zoos are often criticized for confining animals within unnatural and restricted enclosures, depriving them of their natural habitats and essential freedoms. For instance, large mammals such as elephants or big cats, naturally accustomed to vast territories, are confined to limited spaces within zoos, leading to stress, behavioural abnormalities, and compromised physical health. The notorious incident of a confined orca, Tilikum, in SeaWorld suffering physical and psychological distress, as depicted in the documentary "Blackfish," epitomizes the detrimental consequences of captivity on animal welfare.

Furthermore, zoos perpetuate the notion of animals as mere spectacles for human entertainment, commodifying living creatures for profit. Animals' instinctual behaviours are often restricted or manipulated to accommodate visitor schedules or enhance the spectacle, disrupting their natural behavioural patterns. This highlights the ethical dilemma of using sentient beings solely for human amusement, undermining their intrinsic value and dignity. For instance, in some zoos, nocturnal animals like owls, typically active at night, are unnaturally exposed to bright lights during the day to cater to visitor viewing times, disturbing their natural sleep cycles and causing stress.

In conclusion, the ethical arguments against zoos' existence are compelling and persuasive. The detrimental impact of confining animals to limited spaces, depriving them of natural habitats, and exploiting them for human entertainment collectively constitute a strong case for the abolition of zoos. I believe that zoos have no moral ground to exist in the modern world.

Model Answer 2: [Disagreement]

Some people advocate for the dissolution of zoos as they believe that those are inhumane. The assertion that zoological gardens are inherently barbaric and should be abolished paints a simplistic picture of a complex issue. While concerns regarding animal welfare must be addressed, dismissing zoos entirely overlooks their potential for education, conservation, and promoting human-animal connection. 

One crucial role of zoos is their contribution to environmental education and conservation. By providing visitors with firsthand encounters with diverse animal species, zoos can foster empathy and understanding of the natural world and the importance of wildlife conservation. Educational programmes and interactive exhibits can highlight ecological interconnectedness, inspire young minds to become environmental stewards, and generate support for conservation efforts. For instance, a well-designed rainforest exhibit featuring rescued primates can educate visitors about habitat loss and the fight against the illegal wildlife trade, potentially sparking a lifelong commitment to preserving endangered species.

Furthermore, zoos can play a vital role in research and breeding programmes aimed at protecting endangered species. By maintaining genetically diverse populations and providing controlled environments for reproduction, zoos can contribute to the survival of vulnerable species facing habitat destruction or poaching threats. Advancements in animal husbandry and veterinary care within zoos also allow for crucial research on animal health and behaviour, informing conservation strategies and contributing to the reintroduction of animals back into their natural habitats. For instance, successful captive breeding programmes for endangered cheetahs at zoos have boosted wild populations, offering a ray of hope for their continued existence.

In conclusion, advocating for the wholesale abolition of zoos disregards the potential for positive change and advancement. Instead, we should focus on stringent regulations, continuous improvement in animal welfare standards, and promoting open dialogue about ethical wildlife conservation practices.