15/06/2026
Núria Almiron has published the article "The Propaganda Narrative Behind Animal Experimentation" in Oxford Academic.
Abstract:
This article argues that the dominant narrative supporting animal experimentation exhibits the core features of propaganda, with significant implications for ethical and democratic deliberation. Drawing on the propaganda theory literature, the article defines propaganda as an organized, large-scale communicative effort that conceals its persuasive intent, employs systematic content bias, and undermines the public’s capacity for independent judgement in order to preserve or advance institutional power. This article then engages with scholarship on organized strategic intent and discursive methods used by the animal experimentation industrial complex to assess whether this definition applies to the pro-animal experimentation narrative. On the basis of this literature review, it becomes evident that this narrative systematically conceals its persuasive aim, employs misleading and selectively framed information, and relies on emotional and moral appeals that obscure scientific limitations. Taken together, these dynamics are shown to crystallize into three overarching propagandistic mechanisms—selective transparency, selective compassion, and the weaponization of science—through which the narrative suppresses independent judgement, fosters social division and partisanship, and privileges the interests of the animal experimentation industry over those of animals, patients, and citizens. In doing so, the article situates animal experimentation within broader debates on propaganda, democratic accountability, and ethical decision-making. It concludes that pro-animal experimentation discourse functions as propaganda insofar as it significantly diminishes the quality of democratic deliberation by restricting informed public debate on a socially, morally, and scientifically consequential practice.
Access to the article here: https://academic.oup.com/edited-volume/62987/chapter/565527950?login=false
