Pain is actually one of them most important signals a body can experience and I promise you fish feel pain just as much as a dog, cat, person or even a worm. The sensation of pain is very important in protecting our bodies.
And you attitude of "its just a fish" wont fly very far here. All of my fish recognize me and not the other people in my house, because I am their primary care giver. They always come up to visit when I sit by the tank.
I also dont know where you are doing your research but any up to date article or forum wont tell you to cycle a tank with live fish, there are far better methods to do so. Also it is to a LFS advantage if they sell you a fish that will die in your care because you are going to go back and replace the fish, making them more money.
Pain and instinctive response are two different things. Just because something looks like its in pain isn't. A chicken running around after it's head has been cut off feels o pain. In order to feel pain, you need a central nervous system, which fish appear to lack as per the opinion of most scientists.
My research has been simple. Type into google "should fish be Present in a cycling tank?" see what all the other "expert sites" are saying.
My books are "the New Marine Aquarium" by Michael S. Paletta
My two friends have been doing this for years.
My shop is highly respected on Long Island and I've even asked other shops the same
questions for a second opinion.
You're not giving bad advise but if you understood the definition of cruelty you'd see why in my case I find insulting after the 5th time someone has stated it. The act, in and of itself is not cruel. It's the intention that is cruel. After weeks of reading, and asking questions, you are the first to suggest what I'm doing is cruel. Maybe some like to dive into a $1500 investment knowing nothing, but I havnt made it in life doing so.
PS - how did when get so off topic when all I asked is for people to comment on my water and why three fish refuse to swim to the other side of my tank?
If this is the welcome you give all new folks I offer my apologies for joining a private club.