Hallucinogens in Elephants: The Science of Animal Testing, frequently referred to by its colloquial, albeit sensationalized, shorthand, is a 2007 non-fiction book by Alex Boese. It explores a range of unusual scientific experiments conducted on animals throughout history, including the titular 1962 experiment where researchers at the University of Oklahoma administered LSD to an elephant named Tusko. This work serves as a case study, raising ethical questions about animal research and the scientific pursuit of knowledge.
The book provides a valuable contribution to discussions about the ethics and methodology of scientific research. By presenting a collection of often bizarre and unsettling experiments, it compels readers to critically examine the justification and potential consequences of such practices. It highlights the evolution of ethical considerations in scientific research, contrasting historical approaches with contemporary standards. Furthermore, the work explores the societal context surrounding scientific inquiry and the complex interplay between scientific curiosity, public perception, and animal welfare. The incident with Tusko, in particular, became a pivotal point in discussions about the responsible use of animals in research.
