Research Paper

Here are the topics for your research paper. Choose one of the following:

Exotic Pets

Though largely illegal, the exotic species trade has flourished in recent years. In it, individuals who can afford it can purchase any number of exotic species (e.g. tigers, snakes, monkeys) for use as domestic pets. This often results in dangerous outcomes, including the death or injury of the owner and/or pet. It has also had a devastating effect on our environment. For example, Florida’s Everglades is reeling from the (unlawful) introduction of Burmese pythons, which have wreaked havoc on its sensitive ecosystem. What should be done to curb this problem? Explore the implications of importing exotic species as pets.

Invasive Species

All around the world, and for many centuries, humans traveling to new lands have purposefully—or inadvertently—introduced non-native species of animals. In some cases, such introductions have a neutral effect (e.g. the European introduction of poultry to North America), but most often they negatively impact an environment (e.g. zebra mussels in the Great Lakes). In fact, many regions are attempting to combat so-called “invasive species” in hopes of reclaiming and restoring native environments. Profile three areas around the world dealing with the consequences of an invasive species.

Animal Experimentation

The practice of scientific experiments on animals for human benefit is centuries long and has helped yield many valuable advancements, but at what cost? What are the ethical implications of animal testing? Do scientific advancements outweigh the moral rights of animals? And if it is to be accepted, should all practices be allowed, or should there be limits placed on some types of experimentation? Finally, does animal experimentation remain a viable method for experimentation? Should 21st century science continue to engage in the practice of utilizing animals for experimentation?

The Illegal Wildlife Trade

All around the world, several illicit markets exist specializing in the trade of endangered species, such as elephants and tigers. In the illegal wildlife trade, an elaborate and clandestine network of poachers, dealers, and buyers support a multi-million dollar industry. They trade in everything from exotic animals to ivory to overharvested or protected fish. The impact of such markets has been widespread, including dramatically reducing the numbers of several species, such as the rhino. How dire is the situation around the world as a result of the illegal wildlife trade? What can and is being done to combat these networks? 

Industrial Livestock Production

Today’s industrial livestock production feeds more people than at any time in human history. Additionally, large-scale farms, operated by corporate interests, also dominate the American livestock industry. But what issues does the industrialization of cattle, poultry, and swine raise? What are their impacts on the environment? Do these farms’ practices pose any threat to societal health? Do any viable alternatives to industrial livestock production exist? Highlight three issues related to contemporary industrial livestock production.

The Cetacean Trade

The trade of cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises) is amongst the most profitable animal markets in the world. Cetacean transactions happen through an intricate, though often shadowy, marketplace designed to match these animals with anyone who can afford them. Most recently, SeaWorld has come under fire for its purchase of cetaceans through notorious purveyors, such as those in Taiji, Japan. What have been the effects of the cetacean trade? Can cetaceans be traded humanely? Or, should the trade be banned outright? Explore the inner workings of the cetacean trade.

Requirements:

• Minimum 12 pages in length
• MLA Style, including parenthetical citation
• Minimum of 6 outside sources—at least 3 from peer-reviewed academic texts
• Works cited page

Include in your research paper:

• A thesis outlining a clear argument
• An deep analysis of your chosen subject matter
• A conclusion that illustrates an understanding of your subject matter

Due:
Week 13: Week of Mo 4.13—RESEARCH PAPER THESIS

Week 14: Week of Mo 4.20—RESEARCH PAPER OUTLINE

Week 15: Week of Mo 4.27—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 3; BRING 2 COPIES)

Week 16: Week of Mo 5.4—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 6; BRING 1 COPY)

Week 17: Week of Mo 5.11—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 9; BRING 1 COPY)

Week 18: Week of Mo 5.18 (Finals Week)—RESEARCH PAPER (FINAL DRAFT)

Sec 69—
Week 13: Week of Mo 4.13—RESEARCH PAPER THESIS

Week 14: Week of Mo 4.20—RESEARCH PAPER OUTLINE

Week 15: Week of Mo 4.27—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 4; BRING 2 COPIES)

Week 16: Week of Mo 5.4—RESEARCH PAPER (UP TO PAGE 7; BRING 1 COPY)

Week 17: Week of Mo 5.11—(Finals Week)—RESEARCH PAPER (FINAL DRAFT)