First published in 1964, Ruth Harrison's book Animal Machines had a profound and lasting impact on world agriculture, public opinion and the quality of life of millions of farmed animals.

Concerned with welfare standards at a time when animal production was increasing in scale and mechanisation, Ruth Harrison set about investigating the situation in a fair and even-handed way. Reporting her findings in Animal Machines, Harrison alerted the public to the undeniable suffering of calves living in veal crates and birds in battery cages. 

Written at the beginning of the intensive farming movement, which promised progress but in reality worsened conditions for domesticated animals, Animal Machines provides a fascinating insight into the system we are living with today and must continue with as the global population increases.

Harrison's work brought about legal reforms, a greater understanding of farm conditions for animals and increased public awareness. Animal Machines is reprinted here in its entirety, accompanied by new chapters by world-renowned experts in animal welfare discussing the legacy and impact of Animal Machines 50 years on.

CONTENTS:

SECTION ONE: Why We Still Need to Read Animal Machines

SECTION TWO: Ruth Harrison – Tribute To An Inspirational Friend

SECTION THREE: Animal Machines – Prophecy and Philosophy

SECTION FOUR: Ruth Harrison – A Tribute

SECTION FIVE: Ruth Harrison’s Later Writings and Animal Welfare Work

Foreword: Foreword to 1964 Edition by Rachel Carson

Acknowledgements: Acknowledgements

PART ONE: Introduction

PART TWO: Broiler Chickens

PART THREE: Poultry Packing Stations

PART FOUR: Battery Birds

PART FIVE: Veal Calves

PART SIX: Other Intensive Units

SECTION A: The New Factory Farming – A Pictorial Summary

PART SEVEN:  The Basis of Quality

PART EIGHT: Quantity Versus Quality

PART NINE: Cruelty and Legislation

PART TEN: Conclusion