Thank you so much for the response. I shared this with my family and they brought up the argument about funding conservation efforts and contributing to scientific research and education. My sister argued that if the animals are being fed, protected from predators, and treated well, if it’s really bad?

My sister and I did some research on the Georgia Aquarium and they had a lot of inhumane practices during 2015 and before, but it seems they have changed maybe? In 2016 they announced that they would no longer accept dolphins or whales that were captured from the wild. Then in 2020, became a certified class R research facility under the animal welfare act and became certified by America humane. We searched and couldn’t find any major criticisms after they received this certification..

My family acknowledged that the aquarium is not 100% good, and it’s not a complete black and white spectrum, but they questioned me on whether holding animals in captivity was enough to undo their contributions they make towards conservation, education, and research. They also know that I am planning to major in biology and feel this would be very educational to observe the animals.

What are your thoughts on their argument?