Are We Turning Marine Mammals into Breeding Machines? with Dr. Lori Marino
- Marika
- Jun 2
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 14
Introduction and Insights Dr. Lori Marino, a passionate advocate for the welfare of marine mammals, shared insights from her decades-long experience studying the brains of dolphins, primates, and other animals. Her journey began with the question, "What is it like to be someone who is not human?" This curiosity has guided her towards a deep understanding of the psychological and welfare issues that captive marine animals face.
Managed Breeding in Captivity Our conversation veered into the unsettling waters of captive marine mammal breeding. Dr. Marino painted a picture of young orcas and belugas being targeted for breeding, oftentimes through artificial insemination, devoid of any natural choice. These intelligent creatures are stripped of autonomy, transforming them into mere breeding machines for survival in captivity. This managed reality results in multi-generational dysfunction as dolphins and whales struggle to rear their young in concrete tanks that fail to mimic their natural oceanic environments.
Psychological Impact on Captive Animals Dr. Marino detailed the psychological toll such confined environments take on these animals. The stereotypies—repetitive, abnormal behaviors—found in captive animals are a testament to their chronic stress.
Conservation Claims vs. Reality While marine parks argue their necessity in terms of conservation, Dr. Marino debunked these claims, illustrating that captive breeding often does not impact wild populations. Instead, these practices serve to maintain captive populations for the sake of public entertainment, raising ethical questions about the genuine intentions behind these institutions.
Ethical Considerations and Alternatives Are there alternatives? Dr. Marino shed light on the growing trend of ethical considerations in zoos and aquariums and the potential societal shift towards non-exploitative methods of animal interaction. The Detroit Zoo and National Aquarium are leading examples of institutions that are starting to prioritize animal welfare over display, leaning towards sanctuaries instead of suffering.
The Role of Technology in Animal Interaction As we explored alternatives, the role of technology became a focal point. I shared an experience at the Seattle Aquarium involving a virtual reality program that brought marine life alive without the ethical dilemma of captivity. Dr. Marino echoed my sentiments, pointing out exciting innovations like holographic displays and robotic dolphins that promise a future where learning about animals doesn't come at the expense of their well-being.
Ethical Concerns in Animal Breeding Returning to the topic of breeding, Dr. Marino stressed the need to end artificial breeding practices. The conversation touched on parallels with industrial farming, where animals are stripped of agency similar to their marine counterparts.
Understanding Animal Personhood. We can acknowledge the personhood in animals by recognizing their individuality and intrinsic needs.
Our conversation prompted me to consider the broader implications of captivity and breeding. In striving for a more compassionate world, it’s clear that we need to question established norms and push for humane, ethical changes in how marine animals are treated.
Show Notes:
Episode 7 of the series: Sex and Animals Transcript
Discover how captivity and artificial breeding programs impact these intelligent creatures' wellbeing and autonomy. Learn about the shift towards ethical practices.
Guest: Lori Marino is a neuroscientist who has studied animal behavior, neuroanatomy, and intelligence for over thirty years. She is an adjunct professor in Animal Studies at New York University, Executive Director of The Kimmela Center for Animal Advocacy and President of the Whale Sanctuary Project. Lori is internationally known for her work on the evolution of the brain and intelligence in dolphins and whales (as well as primates and farmed animals). She has published over 150 peer-reviewed scientific papers, book chapters, and magazine articles on comparative brain anatomy and cognition, self-awareness in nonhuman animals, human-nonhuman animal relationships, and captive wild animal welfare. Lori also works at the intersection of science and law. She is co-director of the Animal Law and Science Project at George Washington University and an adjunct faculty at the Vermont Law and Graduate School, where she co-teaches
a course in Science of Animal Law and Policy.
Book Recommendations: The Animals Lawsuit Against Humanity by by Ikhwan al-Safa (Author), Rabbi Dan Bridge (Author), Rabbi Kalonymus (Author)
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