Ruth Harrison’s 1964 book Animal Machines exposed the harsh realities of intensive factory farming, documenting the treatment of calves, hens, pigs, and the use of drugs and growth stimulants.

With a foreword by Rachel Carson, the book sparked public outcry and a government inquiry led by Professor Rogers Brambell, setting the stage for major changes in animal welfare law. This episode dives into Harrison’s book and the ripple effect that it had on the world. 

Animal Rights Tour is written by Sean Butler, hosted by Carly McCann, and fact-checked by Paulina Siemieniec. 

This podcast is produced by the Cambridge Centre for Animal Rights Law, an academic centre of competence dedicated to the study of fundamental rights for non-human animals and based in Cambridge, UK. Learn more about the Centre at animalrightslaw.org.