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Are zoos an anachronism in the 21st century when we can watch animals in their natural habitat, close-up from our couches without worrying about cruelty? Should they go the way of other bygone era ‘spectacles’ and ‘attractions’ that we now regard as barbaric? There are vocal campaigners and activists who believe so.
Heather Browning and Walter Veit disagree, but they acknowledge there is a case to be answered. In What are Zoos for? they test the common justifications for zoos (entertainment, education, research, conservation) against the evidence and suggest what the best zoos of the future should look like to ensure that they are primarily for animals and not just for people.
"An informed and honest account of the activities of modern zoos, offering a future in which zoo animals thrive. An inspiring read.” Katherine Cronin, Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL
Heather Browning is a Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Southampton, working on philosophical questions in animal welfare, sentience, and ethics. She previously worked as a zookeeper and zoo animal welfare officer in Australia and New Zealand.
Walter Veit is a Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Reading. His primary research interests lie in the intersection of the biological, social, and mind sciences and empirically informed philosophy and ethics.
1. Introduction
2. Recreation: we're going to the zoo
3. Research: learning from the animals
4. Conservation: beyond the ark
5. Education: teaching through connection
6. Animal Welfare: the fifth pillar
7. Where next for zoos?