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  • Essay / Whale Essay - 2057

    Whales are some of the most fascinating amphibious beings in the ocean. They possess highly learned communication skills and are believed to have a level of intelligence equal to and, in some species, greater than that of the human brain. The marine biological, anthropological, and educational communities have studied the whale in ways that also inform studies of evolution. However, there are industries that subject these animals to captivity, thereby hindering their natural development. Of all the communities contributing to the protection and study of the whale, there is one that tilts the scales towards its exploitation for profit: the entertainment industry. Above zoos and aquariums, which are just as guilty of commercially exploiting animals, is SeaWorld. Since its founding in 1964, SeaWorld has successfully created an image among the general American public that it cherishes the protection of amphibious mammals such as seals, otters and, above all, whales. The marine mammal-themed amusement park has attracted millions of customers around the world to see Shamu and Tilikum. What SeaWorld refuses to admit to the public and to organizations like the Ocean Research and Conservation Association (ORCA) are inadequate living conditions for the animals, disturbing truths about cooperative breeding practices and the makes entertainment value above all else. Although whale extinction is a predictable consequence without adequate protection, SeaWorld contributes more to the problem than any amount of money donated to ORCA and other organizations. SeaWorld has a deterrent effect on the natural development of the whale. Truth be told, the longevity of whales is shorter in captivity, they are psychologically affected and are... middle of paper... as is. The only way they can change their business model for the good of the whale is a motion by states and government officials to pass legislation to improve the regulatory safety of SeaWorld employees, its facilities and, most importantly, its wildlife. With strict enforcement from the States, ORCA and APHIS, SeaWorld would be legally required to comply with the new standards, particularly those relating to the previously presented solutions. In the years to come, and the more informed generation generated by social media takes a stand, animal rights will become an increasingly important issue in legislation. With continued pressure placed on SeaWorld by efforts such as Blackfish and continued studies into the deterrent effects resulting from captivity, the industry will need to change its methods of continued exploitation and move toward progression..