The use of animals in scientific testing, particularly for products like cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, has drastically decreased due to ethical concerns and the development of more sophisticated alternatives. Historically, practices were often cruel, but modern ethical committees now rigorously evaluate the necessity and methodology of animal experiments to minimize suffering and animal numbers. Furthermore, the biological differences between species mean that results from animal tests are not always directly transferable to humans, pushing research towards in-vitro methods and artificial tissues.
Impact: High. This shift reflects a growing societal awareness of animal welfare and a scientific commitment to more humane research practices, potentially leading to more reliable and ethically sound product development.
In the source video, this keypoint occurs from 01:08:04 to 01:17:26.
Sources in support: Emílio Garcia (Biologist), Rogério Vilela (Host)

