"Forward-thinking education takes advantage of advances
already available. Modern sophisticated alternatives
to specimen dissection meet and enhance traditional
curriculum goals and offer vast new possibilities
for teacher and student.”
-Theodora Capaldo, EdD
NEAVS President
NEAVS’ educational affiliate, the Ethical Science Education Coalition (ESEC), works to end the harmful use of animals at all levels of science education. ESEC campaigns to end terminal labs, live animal demonstrations, and training courses, and promotes alternatives to specimen dissection. ESEC provides expert resources and other services in support of humane alternatives to animal use.
ESEC believes all students should have the right to choose alternatives over traditional animal use throughout their education. While dissection alternatives, for example, are readily available – many students are allowed to chose them instead of being forced to dissect, fail, or withdraw from class – only 16 states and the District of Columbia have laws or policies guaranteeing that choice without penalty. ESEC supports legislation and policies that protect the right to a science education respectful of and consistent with a student's beliefs.
Learn more about environmental and ethical arguments against dissection and how alternatives are superior through our dissection Frequently Asked Questions.
Learn general guidelines and strategies for students who want an alternative to specimen dissection here.
Learn more about ESEC’s inventory of alternatives to animal use in our free Alternatives Loan Library.
