Write for an Academic Discussion

A professor has posted a question about a topic and students have responded with their thoughts and ideas. Make a contribution to the discussion.
You will have 10 minutes to write.

Your professor is teaching a class on environmental studies.

In your response, you should do the following.

• • Express and support your opinion.
• • Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.

Professor’s question:

Professor's question: Let's discuss the role of modern zoos. Many zoos position themselves as centers for conservation, education, and research, playing a vital part in protecting endangered species through breeding programs. However, some critics argue that it is fundamentally unethical to keep wild animals in captivity, regardless of the conditions, and that conservation efforts should focus exclusively on protecting natural habitats. Do the conservation and educational benefits of zoos justify keeping animals confined?

Student response 1:

Student response 1: I believe modern zoos serve a very important purpose. They educate the public, especially children, about animals they would never otherwise see, which fosters an appreciation for wildlife. For example, the breeding programs at many zoos have been critical in saving several species from extinction, so their conservation value is undeniable.

Student response 2:

Student response 2: I think that even with the best intentions, zoos are ethically problematic. Wild animals are not meant to live in enclosures, which can cause them significant stress and behavioral issues. Instead of spending money on zoos, we should invest all those resources directly into protecting their natural environments where they can truly thrive.