In order to justify the use of animals in research or teaching, it is necessary to establish a case for the potential benefits of that research or teaching.

This requires:

1. assessing the probability that the outcomes of the proposed study can be achieved, and
2. evaluating the contribution that these outcomes will make to addressing the questions being asked.

Evidence to support the likely benefit and relevance of the scientific outcomes, of necessity, will be based on historical experience.
 

We should be mindful that this decision also involves an evaluation of the importance or value to society of the particular scientific question being addressed. It is likely that there will be a range of views about the benefits of each project.

The decision as to whether or not there is benefit in undertaking a particular project involving the use of animals will be influenced by both scientific and broader community values. This problem explores the kinds of information which are likely to influence such decisions.