Experiments with animals have long been handicapped by our anthropocentric attitude: We often test them in ways that work fine with humans but not so well with other species.

Certainly! Here’s an explanation of the quote with bolded keywords:

This quote by Frans de Waal critiques the anthropocentric attitude that often influences how experiments with animals are conducted. He points out that many tests are designed based on human abilities and perspectives, which may not be appropriate or effective for other species. This human-centered mindset can lead to misunderstandings or inaccurate conclusions about animal behavior and cognition.

De Waal’s observation highlights the need for scientists to consider the unique characteristics and natural behaviors of different animals when designing experiments. By moving beyond an anthropocentric view, researchers can develop better methods that respect species-specific traits, leading to more valid and meaningful results.

The origin of this quote comes from de Waal’s work as a primatologist and ethologist, where he has extensively studied animal behavior and cognition. His expertise has shown the limitations of applying human standards to animals and the importance of adopting a more empathetic and species-appropriate approach.

Overall, the quote encourages a shift in attitude from a human-centered perspective to a more inclusive and respectful understanding of animals, promoting scientific methods that better reflect the diversity of life.