Ingrid Newkirk

About the author: Ingrid Newkirk is cofounder and president of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

Millions of animals suffer through stressful and unnecessary tests every year. Numerous examples indicate that these experiments are wasteful, cruel, and ridiculous. In one study, pregnant rabbits were given cocaine and their offspring received shocks in order to study maternal drug use. In another study, cats were shot in the head to show that this type of wound impairs breathing. The nature of some experiments has not changed in over seventy years. Most researchers defend their actions and the actions of their colleagues, although a few have resigned in protest over the horrendous treatment of their test subjects.

Some months after founding People for the Ethical Treatment of...