Zoological Approaches to Animal Welfare and Conservation Ethics
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53555/jaz.v43i1.5114Keywords:
Animal welfare, conservation ethics, zoological approaches, wildlife protection, captivity, biodiversity, animal rights.Abstract
The landscape of zoological research and practice has undergone a profound transformation in recent decades, emerging as a critical nexus where scientific inquiry, ethical consideration, and conservation imperatives deeply intersect. This complex domain represents far more than a simple academic or institutional framework; it is a dynamic field of study that challenges our fundamental understanding of human-animal relationships, ecological responsibility, and the intrinsic value of non-human life. Traditionally, zoological institutions were primarily viewed as sites of animal exhibition and human entertainment. Contemporary approaches radically reframe these spaces as critical ecosystems of scientific research, conservation strategy, and ethical engagement. Animal welfare and conservation ethics are interlinked fields that focus on protecting the well-being of animals while addressing broader ecological concerns. This article explores zoological approaches to animal welfare, including captive management, habitat conservation, and scientific interventions. It also examines the ethical dimensions of conservation, including debates over the rights of individual animals versus the needs of entire species. The article highlights how zoological institutions, research practices, and policy frameworks contribute to shaping a sustainable and ethical relationship with wildlife.Downloads
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