ABSTRACT
In a Panglossian "best of all possible worlds," the codes of morality are simple as well as just, but in reality, those inter ested in moral philosophy soon find themselves treading murky waters. This simple fact is as true when contemplating the moral status of animals as it is when making moral decisions that pertain to people. Once a research animal hits the floor and becomes an escapee, its moral standing is instantly diminished. Moral codes are the product of human psychology, not "pure reason." Walters Life Sciences Building is home to about 15,000 mice in a typical year. Of these animals, the overwhelming majority are "good" mice. Pest mice also inhabit the Walters Life Sciences Building, but they are accorded far different status than the research subjects. Pest mice are not common but are a legitimate threat in a laboratory facility where extensive precautions are taken to prevent contamination between rooms.
