As cover material this week, we visit a topic that has simmered within our pages for the past few years. That topic is animal research, primarily as conducted at the UW Primate Research Center. It is approached this time through a profile of Dr. Paul L. Kaufman, an ophthalmology professor who utilizes monkeys in his research at the primate center.
The article is written by Isthmus news editor Bill Lueders, whose views on the topic of primate research have been pretty discernible over the course of many articles in which he has broached the subject. He is not a fan, though like many, he seems to wrestle with conflicted feelings. After all, does not the Old Testament give man dominion over animals?
To the credit of both Kaufman and Lueders, the discourse in this article, "Man Over Monkey," is both reasoned and respectful, not traits often associated with interactions in this arena. It turns out that both sides have sympathy for the subjects of primate research - but some deem it a regrettable necessity while others do not. Read on, and discover more subtleties to the debate as the argument continues.
One of the traits that distinguish humans from other primates is our ability to create and enjoy classical music. (Rock 'n' roll, not so much.) Our arts feature this week looks to the near future of classical performance in Madison, previewing the coming season of classical music from the city's primary purveyors. In "Bold Choices," Sandy Tabachnick relates how the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra will incorporate pop references and dance into their program next season; how the Madison Symphony Orchestra will use its season to audition candidates for the concertmaster position vacated by Tyrone Greive at the end of last season; and how Madison Opera will celebrate its 50th year with the presentation of three well-known works.
If you are an opera fan, remember that the outdoor event Opera in the Park will take place this Saturday, July 17, at 8 p.m. in Garner Park. And be mindful of the Wisconsin Union Theater's classical music program featuring visiting artists. It's a sidebar to the story.
