IntroductionAnimals are an important part of our world. Some animals are domesticated and kept as pet companions. But the majority of animals are wild, which means that they live in their natural habitat. Some believe that wild animals should be kept in captivity for safety reasons. Others believe that these animals should be left alone in their natural habitat. Today our debaters will discuss whether wild animals should be kept in captivity. Let’s see what Henry and Ashley have to say.
Henry (Constructive)Wild animals should be kept in captivity. Animals would be safer in captivity because they would not be at risk of being poached or hunted. Another risk is that natural habitats can be destroyed. When this happens, animals can be left with no shelter, food, or water. The third reason is that most people only get to see wild animals at zoos and aquariums. No one would learn about animals if we did not have zoos or aquariums.
Ashley (Constructive) Wild animals should not be kept in captivity. They should be free to roam their natural habitat and be around their own species. Wild animals should learn how to survive by themselves without depending on humans. They should also be allowed to choose a mate and have offspring. Imagine if you were an animal! Would you like being caged in a zoo for your whole life? It is cruel to cage wild animals like this.
Henry (Rebuttal)If I were an animal, I would not mind living in captivity as long as I received food and security. Animals in captivity can live stress-free lives. They will also likely live longer than animals in the wild. Another point is that animals in captivity are generally kept with animals of their own species. They can live with their own kind in a safe environment with steady food and medical care. It is the ideal life for animals!
Ashley (Rebuttal) If I were an animal, I would rather live in my natural habitat and risk being hunted or poached. Animals are meant to be free and wild. They may be exposed to more risks if they live in the wild. However, animals have an amazing ability to adapt. Therefore, if their habitat is destroyed, many animals find ways to survive. Finally, animals should not be kept captive just so people can gawk at them at zoos and in aquariums.
Judge’s CommentsThe winner of today’s debate is Ashley. Henry committed the fallacy of an exaggerated claim. Debaters commit this fallacy when they exaggerate a claim. Henry said, “No one would learn about animals if we did not have zoos or aquariums.” However, there are many people who learn about animals through books, documentaries, or even nature hikes. This proves that there are people who would continue learning about animals even if we did not have zoos or aquariums.