Freeing Chimps From Research as a Declaration of Them as People

In a recent article published by ScienceInsider reveals a plan of action by the Nonhuman Rights Project that has filed a lawsuit in the New York Supreme Court on the grounds that chimps and other cognitively advanced animals, such as whales and dolphins, "...are so self-aware that keeping them in captivity—whether a zoo or research laboratory—is tantamount to slavery." Their argument for the legal action to freeing these animals is to have court action that "...the being imprisoned is a legal person," and must therefore be set free. Although it is is no secret that these animals are extremely intelligent, what is also no secret is that they're physiological systems and nervous systems are the closest to that of a human. Therefore, research involving these animals is to be expected in order to further advance behavioral research and advancements in vaccinations. Further, in order for the FDA to approve any sort of human-model testing of perspective drugs, the scientists must show a promising model on intelligent mammals such as chimps and other primates because of the undeniable cognitive similarities to humans. Frankie Trull, the president of the National Association for Biomedical Research in Washington, D.C.,agrees stating that "Assigning rights to animals akin to what humans have would be chaotic for the research community.” Even though legal action is just beginning, NhRP plans on taking similar lawsuits to multiple states whether or not they are successful New York. If they win they case they will advise the research animals to be transported to a sanctuary in Florida; however, if they lose they plan to appeal the decision immediately. References Grimm, D. (2013). Lawsuits could turn chimpanzees into legal persons. Science Insider, Retrieved from http://news.sciencemag.org/plants-animals/2013/12/lawsuits-could-turn-chimpanzees-legal-persons