Mao's Bestiary

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The book delves into the historical evolution of medicinal animal use in modern China, highlighting the ethical dilemmas and public health risks associated with these practices. It explores how the Communist regime institutionalized the use of animal parts to address drug shortages and attract foreign investment. Key topics include the popularity of chicken blood therapy during the Cultural Revolution and the development of deer antler and bear bile farming. Chee argues that Chinese medicine is dynamic, offering hope for reform in the treatment of animals in this context.