Political Quotes

“While the documentary ``Blackfish'' ignited a public and passionate debate over whether orcas should be held in captivity for the purposes of display and entertainment, as they are at Sea World and other parks around the world, marine mammal experts have, for decades, been engaged in a longer discussion about the scientific value and morality of keeping killer whales in captivity. ``Blackfish'' documents the history of the captivity of orcas in the United States, focusing on one whale named Tilikum, who figured in the deaths of three of his trainers. Public displays of animals can engage our children and kindle a lifelong interest in and respect for wildlife. They can sometimes add to our scientific body of knowledge. Indeed, these are often cited as the justifications for keeping animals in captivity. Yet the shows in which these animals are displayed often have more in common with a rock concert than a scientific exposition, and many believe that the psychological and physical harm done to these magnificent animals far outweighs any benefits reaped from their display. Here are a few facts that call into question the propriety of keeping these animals in captivity. In the wild, orcas frequently swim 100 miles a day and dive to great depths in search of food. In captivity, they are held in tiny, shallow concrete pools where they often wallow listlessly when not being asked to perform.…”