The recent debate over whether or not animal testing should be allowed has caused a stir. When scientists think they have what they claim is a “wonder drug,” they need a way to test the safety of the drug before it is safe for human use. At this point scientists turn to animals, due to their close resemblance to humans. With pharmaceutical companies reducing testing and using alternatives, some people may wonder why animals are being tested at all. While animal testing has advantages, it does not guarantee success in human clinical trials, there is no law protecting animals from cruel testing, and some animals should not be forced to live in cruel facilities. According to several studies, animals have played a crucial role in medical progress over the last century. The article, “Alas, Animal Experiments Are Still Necessary,” explains that animals have been used to test the safety of drugs and vaccines, from common painkillers to cancer treatments. The article points out: “They may not be perfect and human trials are also vital, but without animals medical progress would be seriously hindered” (qtd. in “Alas” P2). The article suggests that animals are crucial to medical research because they test the safety of a drug. While it may be true that animals play a vital role in experiments, in reality some animals do not get a second chance to live and enjoy themselves because, if they are harmed, recovery takes time and is not guaranteed. The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) website explains that nine out of ten (92%) drugs and vaccines tested on animals work for them, but fail in human clinical trials. The author states: “They claim the potential benefits… middle of the paper… it reminds me of how cruel the experiments can be.” Works Cited “Alas, animal experiments are still necessary.” The Independent. June 21, 2011: p.2. SIRS Problem Researcher. Network. November 12, 2013. "Top ten questions." AMP. Americans for Medical Progress, n.d. Web. November 11, 2013.Kretzer, Michelle Sherrow Michelle. “The Five Most Shocking Facts About Animal Testing.” PETA, People for the Ethnic Treatment of Animals. PETA and Web. November 12, 2013. Rose, Stephen. “Proud to be Speciest.” Form a critical perspective. Ed. Ann Spurlock. New York: Learning Solutions, 2006. 106-8. Press. November 12, 2013.Vastag, Brian. “Maryland Lab Chimpanzee Testing Comes to an End.” Washington Post. 01 July 2012: A.3. SIRS Problem Researcher. Network. November 12. 2013.