This ^{^} I wrote a short thesis essay about SeaWorld after the release of Blackfish on CNN and did a lot of research on the history of captive killer whales in North America, and killer whales really have no business being in captivity in the first place due to their size and sociability. That being said, I think SeaWorld is handling the situation the best they can to change what’s going on and do what’s best for their animal population as a whole. Additionally, I think SeaWorld does benefit the oceanic community overall with its educational programs and community outreach. I’ve heard numerous people talk about doing SeaWorld camps as children or animal encounters, citing them as amazing experiences that exposed them to things they never would have before and creating a greater appreciation for the ocean and conservation. I think SeaWorld making a commitment to focusing more on education and conservation and less on entertainment could turn out to be one of the best things that comes out of a tragic situation with the killer whales, and frankly I’m willing to give them that opportunity