Monday, October 21, 2013

Gloria Jones: SeaWorld Responds to Questions About Orcas

Blackfish, a documentary talking about the lives of Killer Whales in captivity, is to be shown on CNN later this week. This film hold a lot of controversy about the ethics of keeping marine mammals in captivity. The main argument is between SeaWorld and PETA. 
For me, it is difficult to get to the raw truth on this subject. PETA argues that "orcas can swim up to 100 miles a day and should not be kept in a 'bathtub'".  Whereas SeaWorld argues that orcas only "need to swim however much is necessary". PETA states it is bad for orcas physical and mental health as cited in the case where an orca killed its trainer. SeaWorld says that their orcas are "usually" there for rehabilitation or are bred to live in captivity.
I think PETA sometimes carries issues too far, expanding on the truth to push their view. I also believe SeaWorld avoids their actual criticisms and tries to divert attention by listing their good deeds. Finally, I do not believe in breeding animals for human's benefits. I think it is selfish for people to bring animals into this world for personal amusement, entertainment, or "economic" interest.

http://www.cnn.com/2013/10/21/us/seaworld-blackfish-qa/index.html?c=us&page=3

2 comments:

  1. I completely agree with you. However, humans have been breeding animals for their benefit for hundreds of years. Any normal dog owner could be subjected to ridicule for the very same reasons, are we to operate under the assumption that it is only inhumane when non domesticated animals are bred? Do all animals count, or are there limits? I don't think these animals should be kept in cage, yet sea world presents a good argument for animals in rehabilitation. But is that justifcation enough?
    -McKenzie Hartmann, 4th Period

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  2. I don't think it's natural for such a free range animal to be kept in captivity. There are ways of studying the orca's habitats while still allowing them to be free. While PETA does occasionally take their causes too far, they are ultimately rooted in truth and should be taken seriously.

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