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Thoughts on research...

There has been a great deal of emphasis on the value of research in moving the massage profession forward. One of the things that is rarely discussed in massage circles in relation to research is where we stand on the use of animals in medical research (much of which may benefit our profession directly). Recently I wrote a blog post about animal research. You can view it at:
http://www.omeri.com/blog/an-end-to-animal-research/

I would be curious to hear what other massage therapists think about the use of animals in medical research-- in particular, how it relates to things that may directly benefit our profession. Is it OK to engage in animal research if there is some "benefit" for the health care fields such as massage?

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Permalink Reply by Ellen Stetson on September 5, 2009 at 11:26pm

Is it OK to engage in animal research if there is some "benefit" for the health care fields such as massage? NO, NEVER in my opinion. Fascinating question. This is how I choose to operate. If we see ourselves as conscious health practitioners, we value wholeness of life, including the lives of animals and take personal responsibility by making conscious choices about what we buy, consume and promote.

Colin Tipping, M.Ed. outlines in his book Radical Forgiveness the Old Consciousness model vs. the Evolving Consciousness. In our evolution, Old Consciousness places value on man's domination and controlling Nature. New Consciousness respects and honors Nature. My frame of reference for my profession is, "is what I am doing/using/promoting today respecting and honoring all of nature?" This I can influence through my every-day choices. Your question has me thinking about choices I make, not just in my office, thank you!

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