Why Academic Researchers?

The academic research sector has a lot to offer in improving understanding and helping front-line persons.

This sector is not infrequently criticized for its shortcomings (e.g. concerns with reproducibility of studies; defects in the peer-review process; undue influences from industries that fund research projects; less and less diversity of opinions; most academic journal articles are behind publishers’ paywalls).
In spite of its flaws and limitations, it has unique characteristics that other sectors do not possess, including: Special methodologies used to generate its “products” (i.e. research findings); how its members are trained and organized; the formal and informal resources available to them; a relatively high regard for its expertise by society. This means unbiased academic researchers and institutions:
- Have the capacity to analyze, elucidate, and synthesize complex issues, to provide powerful, penetrating insights.
- Have access to valuable opportunities and services (e.g. streams of funding such as government research grants; networks and conferences to test and discuss ideas with peers; first rate research libraries).
- Have the possibility to serve as trusted voices and thought leaders for key segments of society.

Furthermore, there is ample evidence that various social concerns have benefited greatly from the fruits of academic research and the involvement of researchers.

But even though academic researchers and institutions have the potential to help, deliberate efforts need to be made to unleash their full potential.

At present, the academic sector's contribution is quite limited. And there are challenges to applying the academic research that is done to address real life problems. For example:

Academic research that is helpful to front-line persons is hard for them to locate, comprehend, and put to practical use.
Research is not done in collaboration with and does not take into full consideration the needs of those who can benefit from the research.

The good news is that there are researchers and universities in different countries eager to contribute and to do more to bring clarity and understanding to the array of negative impacts of global industrial animal agriculture. And we would like to support them. For example:

Offer them funding.
Let them know the kinds of research that are needed by front-line persons.
Help them communicate their research findings and insights in ways that are easily accessible and digestible to laypersons.