![CAHSS Intellectual Conversations](../../../../assets/md5images/63104d02da691a33e2f5e037cf385144.png)
Academic Year 2009-2010
Event Title
Keeping Marine Mammals in Captivity: Good or Evil?
Disciplines
Life Sciences | Marine Biology | Zoology
Description
Keeping marine mammals in captivity has a long and troubled history. Justifications for marine-mammal husbandry range from using the creatures to educate the general public to preventing the extinction of endangered species. Arguments against this activity usually center on: the high rates of mortality in captivity and during wild-capture activities; an increase in social and behavioral pathology in captive animals; and the lack of humane treatment of captive animals. Keith’s presentation explored all sides of this contentious issue and suggest possible compromises.
![](http://nsuworks.nova.edu/far_fls_headshots/1020/fullsize.jpg)
Keeping Marine Mammals in Captivity: Good or Evil?
Keeping marine mammals in captivity has a long and troubled history. Justifications for marine-mammal husbandry range from using the creatures to educate the general public to preventing the extinction of endangered species. Arguments against this activity usually center on: the high rates of mortality in captivity and during wild-capture activities; an increase in social and behavioral pathology in captive animals; and the lack of humane treatment of captive animals. Keith’s presentation explored all sides of this contentious issue and suggest possible compromises.