Biotechnology

This survey finds that the level of support among Canadian adults for genetically modified (GM) fish and other animals has decreased since 2006. Respondents cite a perception that government oversight and regulation of biotechnology has "eroded" their lack of support of GM animals.

This article discusses the current science and technologies that are used and being developed to produce in vitro meat. The author explains the methods of in vitro meat production and explores the current limitations to the process and future possibilities.

Experts combined surveys with the general population, working groups and meetings of professionals in the field, and in-depth interviews to complete this report regarding animals containing human materials (ACHM)--animals genetically manipulated to carry the traits of human animals. The report concludes that most research involving ACHM is justifiable, but that some research is cause for concern.

This study estimates the expected energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and land and water use needed for the industrial production of cultured meat (i.e. in vitro meat). The study authors suggest cultured meat could reduce environmental damage, conserve wildlife, provide food access for human populations, and improve animal welfare.

This article discusses recent research based on surveys of undergraduates in France, Ireland, and the United States. The study investigates how attitudes vary internationally, as well as by the respondents' discipline of study.

Gallup's "2011 Values and Beliefs" poll finds that the most divisive moral issues among Americans today includes doctor-assisted suicide, abortion, having a baby outside of marriage, buying and wearing clothing made of animal fur, gay or lesbian relations and medical testing on animals.

This report summarizes results from Wave 4 of the Animal Tracker annual survey of U.S. adults regarding their attitudes and behavior toward animals. In summary, the results continue to show strong support for humane education and many other advocacy tactics. However, support for all tactics is lower than it was in 2008 and there appear to be fewer people engaging in animal-friendly behaviors, perhaps in part due to the economic downturn.

Both animal rights campaigners and scientists who work with animals completed questionnaires to explore their beliefs and ideas about animal experimentation and their perceptions of how the other group viewed these same issues. The results showed that both groups had a negative and extreme view of the other, but they both also had a good understanding of the issues on both sides of the debate. Some agreement between the two groups about the relative capacity of animals to suffer was also noted.