- J Hagelin: Division of Comparative Medicine, University of Uppsala, Sweden.
PURPOSE: To investigate the influences of gender, discipline, and level on undergraduate students' views of the use of animals in research.
METHOD: In 1998, 888 university undergraduate students from six different programs were surveyed at Uppsala University for their views of animal use in biomedical research. Statistical analysis involved chi-square tests.
RESULTS: Most students found animal use morally acceptable and believed it plays a significant role in the treatment of human diseases. Engineering, law, and medical students were the most supportive, whereas pre-school-teaching students were the least supportive. Men were more supportive than were women. Sixth-term medical and nursing students had a more positive view than did their inexperienced first-term peers.
CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that university students, who will be tomorrow's decision makers, are likely to continue supporting the use of animals in biomedical research and teaching.