Oakley J. Under the knife: Animal dissection as a contested school science activity. Journal for Activist Science and Technology Education. 2009;1(2):59-67


Abstract

This article offers a review of recent research literature that discusses opposition to dissection in the context
of North American school science classes. The arguments against dissection are divided into four themes:
social concerns, animal-focused ethical concerns, pedagogical concerns, and health and environmental
concerns. In discussing these dimensions of the dissection debate, this article outlines dominant concerns
associated with dissection and argues for a critical reconsideration of the practice.



Author's contacts: joakley@lakeheadu.ca