The release of “Blackfish,” a documentary about SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau’s death by a killer whale, aroused an overflow of opinions on whether or not circuses and zoos should close. The non-supporters of zoos and circuses, like Pilar Clark, argue that people shouldn’t attend a place where animals are “made to perform for the enjoyment of humans.” Whit Honea, a father of two, takes the side of Clark when he says he “would love for every zoo and aquarium to focus its entertainment value in education rather than the bells and whistles of cruelty.” Unable to see past the potential education aspect, Clark says she hopes parks “that house animals against their will” listen to SeaWorld’s announcement regarding the end to their popular orca …show more content…
Along with the learning experience supporters claim zoos and circuses provide comes the vast enjoyment that these exotic animals bring to people, specifically children. “Videos and photos of animals just don’t have the same effect as seeing them,” Janis Brett Elspas said. This mother of four exaggerates on the fact that parks like SeaWorld provide pivotal education to children about animals they would only be able to otherwise see in a textbook. Laurie Marshall adds on to Elspas’ growing opinion on how important it is for children to see native animals with their own eyes by simply stating that the closing of circuses and zoos “would deprive my kids of their enjoyment.” In my opinion, circuses and zoos should not close, but should have the chance to prove they treat their animals fairly. “Perhaps it’s possible to meet halfway: increase the quality of life in captivity, while keeping fewer animals so people can still see and experience them, while allowing more animals to roam free,” said Elspas. I agree with Elspas’ proposal in every respect. However, I would add that I think supervision should be enforced within every circus, zoo, aquarium and other