Draft:Conservation and Non Profit Zoo's

Zoo's and Their History:

The idea to display animals for public entertainment can be traced back to the early 18th century. In this period of time the "Age of Enlightenment" was gaining popularity across the globe. This period was well known for scientific inquiry, reason, and education. A trend that was common amongst scientist's at this time was studying the natural biology of animals. The Age of Enlightenment largely impacted scientists, like Charles Darwin, to emerge in the 19th century. Zoos have slowly moved away from science and into a means of entertainment.

The first American zoo was constructed in Philadelphia in 1859. Initially, these institutions focused more on spectacle than on the welfare of the animals . Most animals were subjected to inadequate living conditions. However, over the decades, there was a notable shift towards educating on the conservation of species. In the later half of the 20th century, zoos increasingly emphasized their importance for wildlife preservation, education, and research. Today, many Zoos participate in breeding programs for endangered species as well as promoting awareness on the importance of biodiversity in ecosystems. American zoos continue to play a crucial role in wildlife conservation, public education, and allowing for a deeper understanding of the world. Zoos continue to be a controversial topic in both ethical and scientific observation.

Arguments Concerning Zoos:

In the early establishment of zoo's, poor infrastructures, small enclosures, and the overall concept of exploitation created a negative bias. In the 21st century, many arguments about the morality of zoos arose. Topic's of debate include zoos teaching visitors that animal captivity is acceptable, there is a lack of ramifications when zoos break laws, and zoos are overall unethical to house animals. Social justice and it's value is placed above any conservational benefits.

Zoos are considered beneficial for a variety of reasons including, they play a key role in conservation, public education, and research. One of the most important contributions zoos provide is the preservation of endangered species through breeding programs that work to create genetic diversity in captivity. Zoos also help prevent animal extinction by creating a sanctuary for species that would no longer survive in the wild. The most important role of zoos is their job to educate the public about wildlife and creating a sense of awareness. Zoos provide visitors with a great opportunity to connect with animals they might never encounter in the wild.

Reductionism of Zoos and How to Make Them More Ethical:

The origination of zoos in the European entertainment industry created a lasting negative bias. In a reductionist viewpoint, one might observe zoos through breaking down their parts into, overall animal welfare, education, and conservation success. This approach allows the public to discuss a zoo's overall function and impact. For example, one might evaluate the effectiveness of a zoo's conservation, breeding programs, and if reintroduction of species is taking place. Additional factors like enclosure size, animal enrichment, and health are important when determining how to make zoos better.

Through outreach programs, zoos contribute a great deal towards global conservation efforts, raising funds and awareness for wildlife. Hiring workers that are skilled in ecology and biodiversity will strengthen the cause for conservation. Additionally, educating zoo staff on conservation work will in turn properly educate the public. The morality of zoos is less of a debate when animals and the earth is prioritized.

Society's Influence on Science:

Society has played a significant role in shaping the path of scientific research surrounding zoos. Over the years public values, areas of concern, and ethical considerations have all influenced the practices of zoos. In response to the evolving public attitudes towards animal wellbeing, scientists have focused more on developing humane and enriching enclosures for animals to live. Public scrutiny and demand for transparency have also caused changes in how research is applied within zoos. Promoting this research enhances animal well-being and overall care.

The dynamic between how society has impacted the scientific community within zoos is reflected through witnessing zoo's address ethical concerns. Questions began arising about zoos when visitors noticed a lot of larger animals would pace along their enclosure. News articles like the New York Time's covered these issues, most of the time stating that it is unethical for animals to live in small zoo enclosures. Public scrutiny lead to a vast amount of redesign projects for zoos across America. It also led to scientists researching enrichment ideas to aid the wellbeing of animals.

Science's Influence on Society:

The of practice of science and conservation within zoos has had a major influence on society. Zoos have evolved over the years from basic showcases of exotic animals to now being active participants in educating wildlife conservation. There are additional scientific projects within zoos, including studying animal behavior, genetic record keeping, and most of all contributing new knowledge on various species. This has led for as zoos become hubs for education and inquiry. Information on biodiversity, ecology, and the importance of conservation are all impacts of zoos. With a decline in natural populations of species, many zoo's have breeding programs, so generations of people can continue to learn about animals.

Conservation efforts and educating the public on wildlife has led to betterment of species in the natural world. Zoos engage with the public through educational programs, outreach initiatives, and creating connections. Since the motivation to push education and science in zoo's, public knowledge has grown aware of environmental challenges, the importance of biodiversity, and ecological purpose of animals. Today, zoos serve as catalysts for change by inspiring public action and promoting a connection between people and our planet. Science and understanding the function of zoo's is crucial for saving species and the natural world.

References

Croke, Vicki. The Modern Ark: The Story of Zoos: Past, Present, and Future. Avon, 1998. History of Zoos in Parks : NYC Parks, www.nycgovparks.org/about/history/zoos. Accessed 1 Dec. 2023. “Why Are Zoos Bad? Do They Cause More Harm than Good?” WAF, 30 Nov. 2023, worldanimalfoundation.org/advocate/how-to-help-animals/params/post/1280916/whats-wrong-with-zoos. “Why Zoos and Aquariums Are Beneficial.” Association of Zoos & Aquariums, www.aza.org/connect-stories/stories/benefits-of-zoos. Accessed 1 Dec. 2023. “Zoo.” Education, 19 Oct. 2023, education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/zoo/.