Monday, November 30, 2009
On Grizzly Man
I feel that through this documentary Timothy Treadwell was portrayed in many different lights; it truly brought to the surface many different individuals feelings towards Treadwell and the work that he did with the grizzly bear. Some people viewed him as crazy, others just thought that he had a death wish. I believe that he understood a lot more about this majestic animal than any human being ever has. I believe he fully understood the risks he was putting himself in. He truly did love every and all animals, and was an amazing advocate for the grizzly bear. he did his work for nature, he loved nature and fully comprehended the meaning of 'nature'. He viewed nature and the grizzly bear as sacred, as an animal that every other human being in the world knew little or nothing about. he felt most at home in the harsh environment with the bears, it is sad to think that something he loved so much was to be his downfall. i feel that although Herzog did Timothy Treadwell justice through this documentary, he did not have the same comprehension of nature as Treadwell. I feel that the type of spirit shown in Timothy Treadwells documentaries only comes from true love and compassion for what he was doing. Only when you completely submerse yourself in it and say that you love it more than humanity can you truly understand it. I feel that there is a lot more to be learned about this amazing animal and the vast unknown wilderness that surrounds them. I wish people would have taken Treadwells words to heart when he was alive, because we can't ask him questions now, we can't learn from him now.
On Grizzly Man
This was a very interesting documentary because it was different from many others. I liked that all of the footage was actual footage that hadn’t been cut or edited yet. Timothy Treadwell had an interesting lifestyle and the way he viewed the bears, and nature as a whole made the documentary much easier to watch. Although Timothy Treadwell had a passion for nature, I believe that passion cost him his life. By trying to actually form a human relationship with the bears, he crossed a line. I think that Treadwell had major issues within himself and with being accepted within the society so he turned to animals instead. While I think that it is great how much Treadwell valued nature, he should not have disturbed the wild animals and territories they live in.
On Grizzly Man
Timothy Treadwell is an astonishing man. He devoted his life to the preservation and protection of grizzly bears. Throughout this class, we have discussed human animal interactions. Treadwell took this to a new level. He made the bears and foxes his family, gave them names, and treated them with the utmost respect. His willingness to ultimately give his life for his cause is amazing. To him, the animals mean everything. They essentially helped him quit drinking and drugs. They may have saved his life. Some people may believe that Treadwell got what he deserved when he died, but I do not believe this. I believe that civilization is what killed Treadwell, not the bear. After all, Treadwell would have been heading home had it not been for that altercation with the airport worker. Nonetheless, Treadwell is a role model for people everywhere.
On Grizzly Man
I thought that the documentary provided an interesting outlook on a normally boring topic. Timothy Treadwell added a lot of humor and abstract thoughts to this documentary by simply being himself. I also believe that after awhile his isolation from humans began to affect him causing some of his odd behavior. He died happy because this was the way he always wanted to die. Treadwell realized that wild animals were indeed dangerous, but believed that he had discovered a way to connect with the animals, thus securing his safety. Herzog on the other hand saw a permanent line drawn between humans and animals and no one, no matter who they are, could cross it. The connection Treadwell made with the foxes was my favorite part of the documentary, I found them very cute. To watch the bear fight was also very fascinating, so I could only imagine what it must have been like to actually watch it up close as Treadwell did.
On Grizzly Man
Timothy Treadwell is in one word an individual. To go out into the wild, to separate yourself from the civilized population and immerse yourself in the world of the animals is, to me, simply amazing. I watched the documentary with a mixture of fear, wonderment and skepticism. I mean, here was a man who got as close to the bears (even more so) then any human would dare to.He was so passionate to this ideal that he was the only defender of the bears and he couldn''t leave them. One ecologist said from reading his letters 'he connected so deeply, he seemed no longer human'. He even voiced how 'he wanted to become a bear'.
Treadwell, had a purpose and though he pursued it in a unique way, he had his heart in the right place. Hertzog, who produced the documentary certainly helped the viewers to understand Timothy better. What with the various interviews of Treadwell's family and close acquaintances a picture of who this man was really came into focus. He had within him a wild streak, a deep and yet childish nature towards the grizzlies. He named them, he petted them, he showed his affection with his continuous 'i love you's and conversed with them as if they were children. Perhaps as one interviewee said, "he'd lost sight of what was really going on". There isn't anything wrong with wanting to connect with animals, to defend them; but there is a limit to it. As the biologist Van Daele puts it "we can never get into their world because they're different from us"
I'm especially appreciative of Hertzog taking the time to look at the different perspectives of Treadwell's work. Dr. Haakanson, curator of Autiqq Museum voices his displeasure at Treadwell's attempt to 'connect' with the grizzlies. In his culture, it was a form of disrespect "when i was growing up, we kept to ourselves and the bears kept to themselves". He felt it was wrong "you can't habituate bears to humans, then they'll think all humans are safe". His point is valid, though if you put it in reverse, there is the argument that having animals penned up in zoos or as pets to 'habituate' humans to them is equally wrong; we would all think snakes are harmless creatures so long as their fed, right?
I don't necessarily agree nor disagree with Treadwell's aim to protect: it kept him from having a life thrown away by drink and helped him to explore who he was, but maybe he did get a little carried away. Maybe he did trust the grizzlies, the most dangerous species on earth to the point that it led to his death. But then maybe, just maybe he was getting at something that we can't yet see or at least choose to ignore.
On Grizzly Man
Werner Herzog did a great job making this documentary about Timothy Treadwell, the Grizzly man. Treadwell was a very interesting character who acted on his idealism towards preservation and animal rights. Treadwell's heart was fully focused on protecting the bears and their environment, but his actions seem very illogical and irrational. He never seemed to understand the difference between the psyche of a human and that of an animal. He attributed human thoughts and characteristics to the bears, ultimately leading to his death. Treadwell did seem scared at times, but his ego gave him a sense of safety and compassion with the bears, and he incorrectly thought this feeling was mutual. He incorrectly thought that bears could comprehend his love, compassion, and protection and that they would allow him to live peacefully with the bears in the wild. His death was tragic, and it almost defeated his point in going out into the wild. He wanted to show people that animals can understand companionship and love, and his grisly death only proved the savagery of these wild animals.
On Grizzly Man
The film Grizzly Man was very interesting, but the thought of having to watch it scared me a lot. I am not really a horror movie type of person, so I was happy to see that besides the chopped up bear, that Grizzly bear was very educational. I didn't really know too much about Grizzly Bears except that they are wild animals and we human try to avoid them as much as possible. Well I should say all but one man name Timothy Treadwell. He tried the animals as if they were his friends, with love and respect, that is until he crossed the line. I respect Mr Treadwell for trying to protect that wild animals because it seem as if we as a hole cares so little about what is happening to them and their homes, but I think he took the wrong approach, which the director Werner Herzog might vaguely agree. I believe that Timothy went in to the wildness with all of the right intentions but he at times he did not protect the bears as much as he could have from a distant.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
On Grizzly Man
The Grizzly Man was an interesting perspective on nature and wild life. When I first heard about the documentary I was shocked that a man would and could live with animals, grizzly bears to be exact. When I started watching the film I liked the splitting of information given; from the director Werner Herzog’s point of view and Timothy Treadwell’s recorded footage perspective. I believe that Herzog viewed nature in a way that Treadwell viewed nature but there were also aspects that Herzog didn’t agree with.
Treadwell went out into the wild and tried to become a bear. The footage shot by Treadwell showed him doing numerous things in the wild with bears and foxes. While watching I felt that Treadwell thought that in some way he could domesticate these animals. He grew an awkward attachment to these animals and in some cases he was accepted and in others he wasn’t. Treadwell gave majority of the animal’s names. When Treadwell talked about the foxes he would simply walk up to them and pet them and in one particular scene a fox takes a hat and Treadwell talks to it almost as if I would understand what it is that he is calling it to do. It made me uneasy to watch a man do this. Another scene Treadwell goes to take a bath with a bear and as the bear goes to leave the water Treadwell tries to touch the bear and it turns to snap at him. Treadwell obviously backs off. This shows the lack of appreciation these bears and foxes have for Treadwell. But I do not believe that these animals should be treated in this manner. I admire him for sticking with it for so long and trying to live with the bears but it had a negative effect on him.
Treadwell had spent a lot of time around grizzly bears to understand their movements and ultimately guess at their next move. This was displayed when Treadwell was approached by a female bear and he lunged at the bear and told it not to do it, and the bear walked away. I was amazed by this and knowing that these aren’t domesticated animals it was even more astounding. The negative effect of living with bears was observed in one person’s interview. He mentioned that when Treadwell was approached by people he growled at them like a bear would. This was Treadwell’s choice of communication but it is not a communication that all humans can understand.
My mixed feelings on Treadwell’s actions are as follows; he was brave in trying to set an example that grizzly bears can be sensitive and harmless animals and one interviewer said that his people lived and still live among the bears and they do not bother anyone if no one bothers them. This is why Treadwell lost his life. He was playing with nature in a way that he shouldn’t have been. He was not giving the respect nature deserved. He lowered bears to his own level and invaded on their territory. When Treadwell talked down to the animals, with a tone and voice quality that matched the voice people use when they talk to babies. Animals and babies a like should be spoken to in an young adult manor.
Herzog’s documentary is one that captures a man’s attempt to communicate on level of communication through body movement. This is a complimentary act and one that can be respected in order to rebuild the bridge in human animal relationships.
Treadwell went out into the wild and tried to become a bear. The footage shot by Treadwell showed him doing numerous things in the wild with bears and foxes. While watching I felt that Treadwell thought that in some way he could domesticate these animals. He grew an awkward attachment to these animals and in some cases he was accepted and in others he wasn’t. Treadwell gave majority of the animal’s names. When Treadwell talked about the foxes he would simply walk up to them and pet them and in one particular scene a fox takes a hat and Treadwell talks to it almost as if I would understand what it is that he is calling it to do. It made me uneasy to watch a man do this. Another scene Treadwell goes to take a bath with a bear and as the bear goes to leave the water Treadwell tries to touch the bear and it turns to snap at him. Treadwell obviously backs off. This shows the lack of appreciation these bears and foxes have for Treadwell. But I do not believe that these animals should be treated in this manner. I admire him for sticking with it for so long and trying to live with the bears but it had a negative effect on him.
Treadwell had spent a lot of time around grizzly bears to understand their movements and ultimately guess at their next move. This was displayed when Treadwell was approached by a female bear and he lunged at the bear and told it not to do it, and the bear walked away. I was amazed by this and knowing that these aren’t domesticated animals it was even more astounding. The negative effect of living with bears was observed in one person’s interview. He mentioned that when Treadwell was approached by people he growled at them like a bear would. This was Treadwell’s choice of communication but it is not a communication that all humans can understand.
My mixed feelings on Treadwell’s actions are as follows; he was brave in trying to set an example that grizzly bears can be sensitive and harmless animals and one interviewer said that his people lived and still live among the bears and they do not bother anyone if no one bothers them. This is why Treadwell lost his life. He was playing with nature in a way that he shouldn’t have been. He was not giving the respect nature deserved. He lowered bears to his own level and invaded on their territory. When Treadwell talked down to the animals, with a tone and voice quality that matched the voice people use when they talk to babies. Animals and babies a like should be spoken to in an young adult manor.
Herzog’s documentary is one that captures a man’s attempt to communicate on level of communication through body movement. This is a complimentary act and one that can be respected in order to rebuild the bridge in human animal relationships.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
On Grizzly Man
Werner Herzog's documentary about the life and death of bear enthusiast Timothy Treadwell was simply amazing. I like the way Herzog incorporated Treadwell's footage of the bears to show how Treadwell interacted with them. I also liked how Herzog video taped people's opinions of Treadwell. I wanted to cry when the medical examiner explained Treadwell's death in great detail. Werner Herzog captured every essence of Timothy Treadwell in the "Grizzly Man", showing Treadwell at his best and worst moments.
When I found out that Timothy Treadwell lived among the bears for 13 summer's with no protective gear or weapons, I honestly thought Timothy was crazy. Who would really want to live among dangerous animals without protection? Timothy Treadwell did. In the documentary, Treadwell expressed his love for the bears. They were his friends. He sounded crazy but I respected the way he expressed his love for the bears. He vowed not to hurt them. He wanted to protect them from the hunters and help them get food when there was a decline in rain fall. He truly cared for these animals but they didn't care about him. He seemed to lose touch of reality when he dealt with the bears. He was living in la-la land with these bears forgetting that in any moment they could attack him. He said, "I love these bears, I would die for these bears." He loved the bears and died for the bears. It was sad how he died but I honestly believe he didn't fight back. He didn't want to harm the bear even if he was being harmed and I respect him for that.
Timothy Treadwell's perception of nature and wild animals was inspiring. I smiled every time he called the bears and fox his friend. He said, "I'm a spirit of the forest," and he truly was. Werner Herzog's perception of nature and wild animals seemed to be some-what similar to Treadwell's. I think Herzog agreed with Treadwell's opinions but not his tactics. In my opinion Herzog thought the bears and nature should be left alone. I think Treadwell was a eccentric and passionate man, whose mission in life was to protect the bears and I respect him for that.
Friday, November 20, 2009
LOOKING AT ANIMALS: THOREAU AT THE MENAGERIE
Some passages from Thoreau's journal entry for June 26, 1851:
Visited a menagerie this afternoon. I am always surprised to see the same spots and stripes on wild beasts from Africa and Asia, and also from South America, on the Brazilian tiger and the African leopard, and their general similarity.
All these wild animals, lions, tigers, chetas, leopards, etc., have one hue, tawny commonly, and spotted or striped, what you may call pard color, a color and marking which I had not associated with America.
These are wild animals (beasts). What constitutes the difference between a wild beast and a tame one? How much more human the one than the other!
Growling, scratching, roaring, with whatever beauty and gracefulness, still untamable, this royal Bengal tiger or the leopard. They have the character and the importance of another order of men. The majestic lion, the king of beasts, he must retain his title.
I was struck by the gem-like, changeable, greenish reflections from the eyes of the grizzly bear, so glassy that you never saw the surface of the eye. They are quite demonic. Its claws, though extremely large and long, look weak and made for digging or pawing the earth and leaves. It is unavoidable, the idea of transmigration not merely a fancy of the poets, but an instinct of the race.
*
At the menagerie, that prototype of zoo, no mention of these "wild animals" as tame, or that the wild animal in a menagerie is a constructed wildness.
Strange that Thoreau describes the grizzly bear's claws as "weak" versus supple or subtle, though perhaps they were weak from clawing at the cage floor.
These sorts of observations on "general similarity" among animals go back to prehistorical times, of course, but it's remarkable to read these comments just eight years before the publication of On the Origin of Species, where Darwin would draw on similar observations to profound conclusions. Thoreau was familiar with Darwin's "The Voyage of the Beagle," which he cites in his journals from the same year. Also historically significant: the menagerie's transcontinental vision of animals, so to bring into focus similarities among species that transcend whatever immediate environment (Thoreau's animal context of "America," or more properly "New England").
I wonder what makes the grizzly's eyes "demonic." Their "changeable" quality? Their "glassy" transparency? No surface? No face?
Daemon: "dematerialized," but also "distributed," "scattered." A scattering face of light?
Transmigration (in/as writing). . . exact, careful descriptions of animal pelts and paws; an anthropomorphic veil thrown over "animal."
Thoreau seems to slide into anthropomorphism not only at the point of considering differences between "wild" and "tame," but also where his attention turns from animal bodies to animal voices. Writing animals, speaking animals.
Animal: object and subject, transparent and opaque.
Visited a menagerie this afternoon. I am always surprised to see the same spots and stripes on wild beasts from Africa and Asia, and also from South America, on the Brazilian tiger and the African leopard, and their general similarity.
All these wild animals, lions, tigers, chetas, leopards, etc., have one hue, tawny commonly, and spotted or striped, what you may call pard color, a color and marking which I had not associated with America.
These are wild animals (beasts). What constitutes the difference between a wild beast and a tame one? How much more human the one than the other!
Growling, scratching, roaring, with whatever beauty and gracefulness, still untamable, this royal Bengal tiger or the leopard. They have the character and the importance of another order of men. The majestic lion, the king of beasts, he must retain his title.
I was struck by the gem-like, changeable, greenish reflections from the eyes of the grizzly bear, so glassy that you never saw the surface of the eye. They are quite demonic. Its claws, though extremely large and long, look weak and made for digging or pawing the earth and leaves. It is unavoidable, the idea of transmigration not merely a fancy of the poets, but an instinct of the race.
*
At the menagerie, that prototype of zoo, no mention of these "wild animals" as tame, or that the wild animal in a menagerie is a constructed wildness.
Strange that Thoreau describes the grizzly bear's claws as "weak" versus supple or subtle, though perhaps they were weak from clawing at the cage floor.
These sorts of observations on "general similarity" among animals go back to prehistorical times, of course, but it's remarkable to read these comments just eight years before the publication of On the Origin of Species, where Darwin would draw on similar observations to profound conclusions. Thoreau was familiar with Darwin's "The Voyage of the Beagle," which he cites in his journals from the same year. Also historically significant: the menagerie's transcontinental vision of animals, so to bring into focus similarities among species that transcend whatever immediate environment (Thoreau's animal context of "America," or more properly "New England").
I wonder what makes the grizzly's eyes "demonic." Their "changeable" quality? Their "glassy" transparency? No surface? No face?
Daemon: "dematerialized," but also "distributed," "scattered." A scattering face of light?
Transmigration (in/as writing). . . exact, careful descriptions of animal pelts and paws; an anthropomorphic veil thrown over "animal."
Thoreau seems to slide into anthropomorphism not only at the point of considering differences between "wild" and "tame," but also where his attention turns from animal bodies to animal voices. Writing animals, speaking animals.
Animal: object and subject, transparent and opaque.
Monday, November 16, 2009
VEGAN THANKSGIVING AT TEMPLE
As faculty advisor for PAW (Promoters of Animal Welfare), Temple's student organization devoted to promoting animal welfare, I'd like to invite everyone in 0701 to PAW's 2009 Vegan Thanksgiving. Details below.
Click here for a copy of the November PAW newsletter.
Hope to see some of you there.
*
Join us on November 18th at 5:15 p.m., Student Center, Room 207, to celebrate PAW’s second annual celebration of Vegan Thanksgiving!
Every November, turkeys are slaughtered in increased quantities to feed America’s tradition of having the bird on the Thanksgiving feast table. Last year, PAW took a stand against the slaughter of holiday turkeys by hosting a Potluck Vegan Thanksgiving Celebration and adopting a turkey from Farm Sanctuary. This year, we will continue the tradition and invite everyone—you don’t have to be vegan or vegetarian to come! Last year, we had cornbread, pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, homemade stuffing, mashed potatoes, and yes—tofurkey with gravy!
The celebration is a potluck and is only successful if everyone pitches it! We request that PAW members bring a vegan dish, a drink, plates, cups, etc. Those who are not members of PAW are not required to bring anything, but are always welcome!
Every November, turkeys are slaughtered in increased quantities to feed America’s tradition of having the bird on the Thanksgiving feast table. Last year, PAW took a stand against the slaughter of holiday turkeys by hosting a Potluck Vegan Thanksgiving Celebration and adopting a turkey from Farm Sanctuary. This year, we will continue the tradition and invite everyone—you don’t have to be vegan or vegetarian to come! Last year, we had cornbread, pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, homemade stuffing, mashed potatoes, and yes—tofurkey with gravy!
The celebration is a potluck and is only successful if everyone pitches it! We request that PAW members bring a vegan dish, a drink, plates, cups, etc. Those who are not members of PAW are not required to bring anything, but are always welcome!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
On Animals
Fatal Dog Maulings Associated With Infant Swings..
Authors:Chu, Albert Y.1
Ripple, Mary G.1
Allan, Carol H.1
Thogmartin, Jon R.2
Fowler, David R.1.
Source:Journal of Forensic Sciences (Blackwell Publishing Limited); Mar2006, Vol. 51 Issue 2, p403-406, 4p, 2 bw
Abstract:
We present three cases of fatal dog maulings of infants placed in mobile infant swings, a phenomenon not previously described in the literature. In each case, the victim was left in a mobile swing, unsupervised by an adult, and the attacking dog was a family pet. Case 1 involved an 18-day-old male infant attacked by a pit bull; Case 2 involved a 3-month-old male infant attacked by a Chow Chow and/or a Dachshund, and Case 3 involved an 18-day-old female infant attacked by a Labrador–pit bull mix. These cases not only underscore the importance of not leaving young children unattended in the presence of pet dogs, but also raise the possibility that mobile swings may trigger a predatory response in dogs and thus may represent an additional risk factor for dog attack.
Authors:Chu, Albert Y.1
Ripple, Mary G.1
Allan, Carol H.1
Thogmartin, Jon R.2
Fowler, David R.1.
Source:Journal of Forensic Sciences (Blackwell Publishing Limited); Mar2006, Vol. 51 Issue 2, p403-406, 4p, 2 bw
Abstract:
We present three cases of fatal dog maulings of infants placed in mobile infant swings, a phenomenon not previously described in the literature. In each case, the victim was left in a mobile swing, unsupervised by an adult, and the attacking dog was a family pet. Case 1 involved an 18-day-old male infant attacked by a pit bull; Case 2 involved a 3-month-old male infant attacked by a Chow Chow and/or a Dachshund, and Case 3 involved an 18-day-old female infant attacked by a Labrador–pit bull mix. These cases not only underscore the importance of not leaving young children unattended in the presence of pet dogs, but also raise the possibility that mobile swings may trigger a predatory response in dogs and thus may represent an additional risk factor for dog attack.
On Animals
Abstract:
A common Western assumption is that animals cannot be persons. Even in animal ethics, the concept of personhood is often avoided. At the same time, many in cognitive ethology argue that animals do have minds, and that animal ethics presents convincing arguments supporting the individual value of animals. Although "animal personhood" may seem to be an absurd notion, more attention needs to placed on the reasons why animals can or cannot be included in the category of persons. Of three different approaches to personhood-the perfectionist approach, the humanistic approach, and the interactive approach-the third approach is the strongest. Personhood defined via interaction opens new doors for animal ethics.
A common Western assumption is that animals cannot be persons. Even in animal ethics, the concept of personhood is often avoided. At the same time, many in cognitive ethology argue that animals do have minds, and that animal ethics presents convincing arguments supporting the individual value of animals. Although "animal personhood" may seem to be an absurd notion, more attention needs to placed on the reasons why animals can or cannot be included in the category of persons. Of three different approaches to personhood-the perfectionist approach, the humanistic approach, and the interactive approach-the third approach is the strongest. Personhood defined via interaction opens new doors for animal ethics.
CENTER FOR THE INTERACTION OF ANIMALS AND SOCIETY
The Center for the Interaction of Animals and Society at Penn's School of Veterinary Medicine has an impressive list of scholarly resources on their website.
Click on the link to the right under "Other Links" or click on the "Publications" tab at their homepage.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
On Animals
HEISE, URSULA K.
“The Android and the Animal.”
PMLA: Publications of the Modern Language Association of America
Abstract:
The article discusses the relationships between androids and animals. Connections between robots and animals in science fiction are noted. The author notes how post humanism has focused on both animal-human relations and machine consciousness. She comments that androids do not address biological forms of otherness as depictions of aliens have. The juxtaposition of animals and robots in science fiction books such as "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" by Philip K. Dick is noted.
Kahn, Peter H., Severson, Rachel L. , and Ruckert, Jolina H.
“The Human Relation with Nature and Technological Nature.”
Current Directions in Psychological Science
Abstract:
Two world trends are powerfully reshaping human existence: the degradation, if not destruction, of large parts of the natural world, and unprecedented technological development. At the nexus of these two trends lies technological nature—technologies that in various ways mediate, augment, or simulate the natural world. Current examples of technological nature include videos and live webcams of nature, robot animals, and immersive virtual environments. Does it matter for the physical and psychological well-being of the human species that actual nature is being replaced with technological nature? As the basis for our provisional answer (it is “yes”), we draw on evolutionary and cross-cultural developmental accounts of the human relation with nature and some recent psychological research on the effects of technological nature. Finally, we discuss the issue—and area for future research—of “environmental generational amnesia.” The concern is that, by adapting gradually to the loss of actual nature and to the increase of technological nature, humans will lower the baseline across generations for what counts as a full measure of the human experience and of human flourishing.
Varga, Donna
“Babes in the Woods: Wilderness Aesthetics in Children's Stories and Toys”
Society & Animals
Abstract:
Representations of nonhuman wild animals in children's stories and toys underwent dramatic transformation over the years 1830-1915. During the earlier part of that period, wild animals were presented to children as being savage and dangerous, and that it was necessary for them to be killed or brutally constrained. In the 1890s, an animal centric discourse emerged in Nature writing, along with an animal-human symbiosis in scientific child study that highlighted childhood innocence, resulting in a valuing of wild animals based upon their similarity to humans. This article will describe the aesthetic devices of children's stories and play materials in relation to the dominant, emerging, and residual ideas about the wild communicated by adults to children through these means.
“The Android and the Animal.”
PMLA: Publications of the Modern Language Association of America
Abstract:
The article discusses the relationships between androids and animals. Connections between robots and animals in science fiction are noted. The author notes how post humanism has focused on both animal-human relations and machine consciousness. She comments that androids do not address biological forms of otherness as depictions of aliens have. The juxtaposition of animals and robots in science fiction books such as "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" by Philip K. Dick is noted.
Kahn, Peter H., Severson, Rachel L. , and Ruckert, Jolina H.
“The Human Relation with Nature and Technological Nature.”
Current Directions in Psychological Science
Abstract:
Two world trends are powerfully reshaping human existence: the degradation, if not destruction, of large parts of the natural world, and unprecedented technological development. At the nexus of these two trends lies technological nature—technologies that in various ways mediate, augment, or simulate the natural world. Current examples of technological nature include videos and live webcams of nature, robot animals, and immersive virtual environments. Does it matter for the physical and psychological well-being of the human species that actual nature is being replaced with technological nature? As the basis for our provisional answer (it is “yes”), we draw on evolutionary and cross-cultural developmental accounts of the human relation with nature and some recent psychological research on the effects of technological nature. Finally, we discuss the issue—and area for future research—of “environmental generational amnesia.” The concern is that, by adapting gradually to the loss of actual nature and to the increase of technological nature, humans will lower the baseline across generations for what counts as a full measure of the human experience and of human flourishing.
Varga, Donna
“Babes in the Woods: Wilderness Aesthetics in Children's Stories and Toys”
Society & Animals
Abstract:
Representations of nonhuman wild animals in children's stories and toys underwent dramatic transformation over the years 1830-1915. During the earlier part of that period, wild animals were presented to children as being savage and dangerous, and that it was necessary for them to be killed or brutally constrained. In the 1890s, an animal centric discourse emerged in Nature writing, along with an animal-human symbiosis in scientific child study that highlighted childhood innocence, resulting in a valuing of wild animals based upon their similarity to humans. This article will describe the aesthetic devices of children's stories and play materials in relation to the dominant, emerging, and residual ideas about the wild communicated by adults to children through these means.
On Animals
Animal–visitor interactions in the modern zoo: Conflicts and interventions.
Eduardo Fernadez, Sarah Pickens, and William Timberlake
Applied Animal Behaviour Science; Aug2009, Vol. 120 Issue 1/2, p1-8, 8p
Abstract: Animal welfare, education, conservation, research, and entertainment are major goals of modern zoos, but they can be in conflict. For example, visitors enjoy learning about and observing natural behavior in captive animals, but visitors often want to observe and interact with the animals in close proximity. Unfortunately, proximity to and social interactions with humans induce stress for many species, particularly primates. We review two general classes of research examining animal–visitor interactions in zoos: (1) effects of exhibit design and the behavior of the animals on zoo visitors, and (2) effects of zoo visitors on the behavior of exhibited animals. We suggest that interventions based on careful attention to exhibit design, species characteristics, and visitor education can increase positive animal–visitor interactions and facilitate the multiple goals of modern zoos.
Eduardo Fernadez, Sarah Pickens, and William Timberlake
Applied Animal Behaviour Science; Aug2009, Vol. 120 Issue 1/2, p1-8, 8p
Abstract: Animal welfare, education, conservation, research, and entertainment are major goals of modern zoos, but they can be in conflict. For example, visitors enjoy learning about and observing natural behavior in captive animals, but visitors often want to observe and interact with the animals in close proximity. Unfortunately, proximity to and social interactions with humans induce stress for many species, particularly primates. We review two general classes of research examining animal–visitor interactions in zoos: (1) effects of exhibit design and the behavior of the animals on zoo visitors, and (2) effects of zoo visitors on the behavior of exhibited animals. We suggest that interventions based on careful attention to exhibit design, species characteristics, and visitor education can increase positive animal–visitor interactions and facilitate the multiple goals of modern zoos.
On Animals
INCREASING OUR COMPASSION FOOTPRINT: THE ANIMALS' MANIFESTO
Bekoff, Marc
Zygon: Journal of Religion & Science; Dec2008, Vol. 43 Issue 4, p771-781, 11p
Abstract:
Our relationships with animals are wide-ranging. When people tell me that they love animals and then harm or kill them I tell them I'm glad they don't love me. Many individuals, including scientists, ignore their responsibility when they interact with animals and fail to recognize that doing something in the name of science, which usually means in the name of humans, is not an adequate reason for intentionally causing suffering, pain, or death. “Good welfare” usually is not “good enough”. Existing regulations allow animals to be treated in regrettable ways that demean us as a species. Compassion is the key for bettering both animal and human lives. A good way to make the world a more compassionate place for animals is to increase our compassion footprint. We could begin by deciding that we will not intrude on animals' lives unless our actions are in the best interests of the animals irrespective of our desires. It is simple to make more compassionate choices about what we eat and wear and how we educate students, conduct research, and entertain ourselves at the expense of animals. The time to make these changes is long overdue.
Bekoff, Marc
Zygon: Journal of Religion & Science; Dec2008, Vol. 43 Issue 4, p771-781, 11p
Abstract:
Our relationships with animals are wide-ranging. When people tell me that they love animals and then harm or kill them I tell them I'm glad they don't love me. Many individuals, including scientists, ignore their responsibility when they interact with animals and fail to recognize that doing something in the name of science, which usually means in the name of humans, is not an adequate reason for intentionally causing suffering, pain, or death. “Good welfare” usually is not “good enough”. Existing regulations allow animals to be treated in regrettable ways that demean us as a species. Compassion is the key for bettering both animal and human lives. A good way to make the world a more compassionate place for animals is to increase our compassion footprint. We could begin by deciding that we will not intrude on animals' lives unless our actions are in the best interests of the animals irrespective of our desires. It is simple to make more compassionate choices about what we eat and wear and how we educate students, conduct research, and entertain ourselves at the expense of animals. The time to make these changes is long overdue.
On Animals
Hollander, Michelle and Darryl T. Gwynne
"Female fitness consequences of male harassment and copulation in seed beetles, Callosobruchus maculatus"
Animal Behaviour; Nov2009, Vol. 78 Issue 5, p1061-1070, 10p
Abstarct:
Despite widespread evidence for the benefits of polyandry, there are costs associated with each mating for females, and for many species, it is unknown whether the costs of extra matings outweigh the benefits. In the seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae), costs might come from male harassment during mating attempts or from injuries that females sustain during copulation. Benefits of mating might come from nutrients or water transferred in the ejaculate. If mating is costly overall, male presence (sexual harassment) and multiple mating in C. maculatus is expected to reduce female fitness. Females were housed with differing numbers of males (1–4) and differing opportunities for copulation. When females were both harassed by and could remate with more than one male, they had lower lifetime reproductive rates and reduced life span relative to monandrous females. These results indicate that when females are continually exposed to multiple males, the direct benefits of multiple mating do not compensate for the costs.
"Female fitness consequences of male harassment and copulation in seed beetles, Callosobruchus maculatus"
Animal Behaviour; Nov2009, Vol. 78 Issue 5, p1061-1070, 10p
Abstarct:
Despite widespread evidence for the benefits of polyandry, there are costs associated with each mating for females, and for many species, it is unknown whether the costs of extra matings outweigh the benefits. In the seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae), costs might come from male harassment during mating attempts or from injuries that females sustain during copulation. Benefits of mating might come from nutrients or water transferred in the ejaculate. If mating is costly overall, male presence (sexual harassment) and multiple mating in C. maculatus is expected to reduce female fitness. Females were housed with differing numbers of males (1–4) and differing opportunities for copulation. When females were both harassed by and could remate with more than one male, they had lower lifetime reproductive rates and reduced life span relative to monandrous females. These results indicate that when females are continually exposed to multiple males, the direct benefits of multiple mating do not compensate for the costs.
On Animals
Marlin D.,Meldrum K.,White J.,Westen H.,Parkin T.,Wood J.,Broom D.,Kennedy M.,
Johnson B.,Coombs S. and Caroline Heard,
"Welfare of horses transported long distances in Europe"
Veterinary Record: Journal of the British Veterinary Association
Abstract:
The article reports on a study which examined the trade in long-distance transport of horses for slaughter for human consumption in Europe. It mentions that the study has identified evidence of poor welfare, associated with disease and injury, in horses being transported long distances to slaughter and a high level of non-compliance with European Union (EU) Council Regulation 1/2005 on the Protection of Animals during Transport. The study covered the countries of Italy and Romania.
Johnson B.,Coombs S. and Caroline Heard,
"Welfare of horses transported long distances in Europe"
Veterinary Record: Journal of the British Veterinary Association
Abstract:
The article reports on a study which examined the trade in long-distance transport of horses for slaughter for human consumption in Europe. It mentions that the study has identified evidence of poor welfare, associated with disease and injury, in horses being transported long distances to slaughter and a high level of non-compliance with European Union (EU) Council Regulation 1/2005 on the Protection of Animals during Transport. The study covered the countries of Italy and Romania.
On Aminals
Burns, John F.
New York Times; 12/24/2008, p11, 0p
Abstract:
Four animal rights activists got convicted for mounting a seven-year campaign of blackmail and intimidation against suppliers of an animal testing research center near Cambridge. Three others had previously pleaded guilty. The group's tactics included threatening phone calls, bomb hoaxes, and threats of attacks with H.I.V.-infected needles and sending letters to neighbors falsely accusing the supply company managers of being pedophiles. The campaign against suppliers of Huntingdon Life Sciences, a research laboratory that is regarded as one of Europe's most advanced centers for animal testing for biomedical research, had threatened to close the company and curb animal testing in Britain. Sentences will be handed down next month.
New York Times; 12/24/2008, p11, 0p
Abstract:
Four animal rights activists got convicted for mounting a seven-year campaign of blackmail and intimidation against suppliers of an animal testing research center near Cambridge. Three others had previously pleaded guilty. The group's tactics included threatening phone calls, bomb hoaxes, and threats of attacks with H.I.V.-infected needles and sending letters to neighbors falsely accusing the supply company managers of being pedophiles. The campaign against suppliers of Huntingdon Life Sciences, a research laboratory that is regarded as one of Europe's most advanced centers for animal testing for biomedical research, had threatened to close the company and curb animal testing in Britain. Sentences will be handed down next month.
On Animals
Marinelli, Lieta, Serena1 Adamelli, Simona1 Normando,Gabriele1 Bono
"Quality of life of the pet dog: Influence of owner and dog's characteristics."
Applied Animal Behaviour Science
Abstract:
The present study investigates how characteristics of both the dog, Canis familiaris, and their owner influence the quality of life (QoL) of the pet dog. The investigation was carried out using a multiple approach: (1) three questionnaires which investigated characteristics of the dog and their owner and care given to the dog, (2) simple physical examination of the dog, (3) the Strange Situation Test to investigate the dog''s attachment to their owner and (4) the Lexington Attachment to Pets Scale (LAPS) test. A sample of 104 dog–owner dyads participated in the study. The level of care was found to be positively influenced by marital status (single) and negatively by the age of the dog, length of the dog–owner relationship and neutering. The best physical condition was found for pure breed dogs belonging to men and to people who prefer dogs among pets while physical condition decreases for aging dogs or those with a long relationship with their owner. Attachment to the owner was stronger for dogs with a long relationship and those belonging to people who had had previous experience with pets and those with many emotional bonds. Conversely, the attachment level was lower for pure breed dogs and those whose owners shared the property with other people. LAPS was influenced only by owner features: people more attached to their dogs are those who do not live with children and who do have many emotional bonds. Finally, the majority of dogs had a high level of QoL which was influenced positively by the number of emotional bonds of the owner and negatively by the dog''s age and length of the dog–owner relationship. [Copyright 2007 Elsevier]
"Quality of life of the pet dog: Influence of owner and dog's characteristics."
Applied Animal Behaviour Science
Abstract:
The present study investigates how characteristics of both the dog, Canis familiaris, and their owner influence the quality of life (QoL) of the pet dog. The investigation was carried out using a multiple approach: (1) three questionnaires which investigated characteristics of the dog and their owner and care given to the dog, (2) simple physical examination of the dog, (3) the Strange Situation Test to investigate the dog''s attachment to their owner and (4) the Lexington Attachment to Pets Scale (LAPS) test. A sample of 104 dog–owner dyads participated in the study. The level of care was found to be positively influenced by marital status (single) and negatively by the age of the dog, length of the dog–owner relationship and neutering. The best physical condition was found for pure breed dogs belonging to men and to people who prefer dogs among pets while physical condition decreases for aging dogs or those with a long relationship with their owner. Attachment to the owner was stronger for dogs with a long relationship and those belonging to people who had had previous experience with pets and those with many emotional bonds. Conversely, the attachment level was lower for pure breed dogs and those whose owners shared the property with other people. LAPS was influenced only by owner features: people more attached to their dogs are those who do not live with children and who do have many emotional bonds. Finally, the majority of dogs had a high level of QoL which was influenced positively by the number of emotional bonds of the owner and negatively by the dog''s age and length of the dog–owner relationship. [Copyright 2007 Elsevier]
Animals
Animal Mind: Science, Philosophy and Ethics.
Authors: Rollin, Bernard
Abstract: Although 20th-century empiricists were agnostic about animal mind and consciousness, this was not the case for their historical ancestors – John Locke, David Hume, Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill, and, of course, Charles Darwin and George John Romanes. Given the dominance of the Darwinian paradigm of evolutionary continuity, one would not expect belief in animal mind to disappear. That it did demonstrates that standard accounts of how scientific hypotheses are overturned – i.e., by empirical disconfirmation or by exposure of logical flaws – is inadequate. In fact, it can be demonstrated that belief in animal mind disappeared as a result of a change of values, a mechanism also apparent in the Scientific Revolution. The “valuational revolution” responsible for denying animal mind is examined in terms of the rise of Behaviorism and its flawed account of the historical inevitability of denying animal mentation. The effects of the denial of animal consciousness included profound moral implications for the major uses of animals in agriculture and scientific research. The latter is particularly notable for the denial of felt pain in animals. The rise of societal moral concern for animals, however, has driven the “reappropriation of common sense” about animal thought and feeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Authors: Rollin, Bernard
Abstract: Although 20th-century empiricists were agnostic about animal mind and consciousness, this was not the case for their historical ancestors – John Locke, David Hume, Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill, and, of course, Charles Darwin and George John Romanes. Given the dominance of the Darwinian paradigm of evolutionary continuity, one would not expect belief in animal mind to disappear. That it did demonstrates that standard accounts of how scientific hypotheses are overturned – i.e., by empirical disconfirmation or by exposure of logical flaws – is inadequate. In fact, it can be demonstrated that belief in animal mind disappeared as a result of a change of values, a mechanism also apparent in the Scientific Revolution. The “valuational revolution” responsible for denying animal mind is examined in terms of the rise of Behaviorism and its flawed account of the historical inevitability of denying animal mentation. The effects of the denial of animal consciousness included profound moral implications for the major uses of animals in agriculture and scientific research. The latter is particularly notable for the denial of felt pain in animals. The rise of societal moral concern for animals, however, has driven the “reappropriation of common sense” about animal thought and feeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Monday, November 9, 2009
Animal Language
Animal mind-human mind: The continuity of mental experience with or without language.
Authors:
Spada, Emanuela Cenami
Abstract:
Discusses a critique of Animal Language Research (ALR) and posits that the methodological and interpretative problems of ALR derive from some key theoretical paradoxes implicit in the premises of the research. Rudiments of animal language; Language comprehension and cueing problems; Comparison between language and information processing and memory.
Humans and animals'? On saying what we mean.
Authors:
Dess, Nancy K.Chapman, Clinton D.
Abstract:
Opinion. Discusses the human-animal convention as it relates to psychology. Significance of the phrase `humans and animals'; Observations by philosophers of commonality among species; Questions whether the use of human-animal language in psychology reflects belief that humans are not animals; Analysis of the widespread acceptance of evolution.
Authors:
Spada, Emanuela Cenami
Abstract:
Discusses a critique of Animal Language Research (ALR) and posits that the methodological and interpretative problems of ALR derive from some key theoretical paradoxes implicit in the premises of the research. Rudiments of animal language; Language comprehension and cueing problems; Comparison between language and information processing and memory.
Humans and animals'? On saying what we mean.
Authors:
Dess, Nancy K.Chapman, Clinton D.
Abstract:
Opinion. Discusses the human-animal convention as it relates to psychology. Significance of the phrase `humans and animals'; Observations by philosophers of commonality among species; Questions whether the use of human-animal language in psychology reflects belief that humans are not animals; Analysis of the widespread acceptance of evolution.
On Animals
Laurie Ragatz, William Fremouw, Tracy Thomas, and Katrina McCoy,
"Vicious Dogs: The Antisocial Behaviors and Psychological Characteristics of Owners."
Journal of Forensic Sciences
Abstract:
Each year, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs. Of those bitten each year, 386,000 are seriously injured and some killed. Consequently, many insurance companies refuse to issue homeowners insurance to owners of specific breeds of dogs considered “vicious” or high risk of causing injury. This study examined whether vicious dog owners were different on antisocial behaviors and personality dimensions. A total of 869 college students completed an anonymous online questionnaire assessing type of dog owned, criminal behaviors, attitudes towards animal abuse, psychopathy, and personality. The sample was divided into four groups: vicious dog owners, large dog owners, small dog owners, and controls. Findings revealed vicious dog owners reported significantly more criminal behaviors than other dog owners. Vicious dog owners were higher in sensation seeking and primary psychopathy. Study results suggest that vicious dog ownership may be a simple marker of broader social deviance.
"Vicious Dogs: The Antisocial Behaviors and Psychological Characteristics of Owners."
Journal of Forensic Sciences
Abstract:
Each year, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs. Of those bitten each year, 386,000 are seriously injured and some killed. Consequently, many insurance companies refuse to issue homeowners insurance to owners of specific breeds of dogs considered “vicious” or high risk of causing injury. This study examined whether vicious dog owners were different on antisocial behaviors and personality dimensions. A total of 869 college students completed an anonymous online questionnaire assessing type of dog owned, criminal behaviors, attitudes towards animal abuse, psychopathy, and personality. The sample was divided into four groups: vicious dog owners, large dog owners, small dog owners, and controls. Findings revealed vicious dog owners reported significantly more criminal behaviors than other dog owners. Vicious dog owners were higher in sensation seeking and primary psychopathy. Study results suggest that vicious dog ownership may be a simple marker of broader social deviance.
On Animals
Dawkins, Marian Stamp
Applied Animal Behavior Science
Abstract:
Why do some people and not others become involved in social movements? We examined the relationships between a moral emotion—disgust—and animal activism, attitudes toward animal welfare, and consumption of meat. Participants were recruited through two social networking websites and included animal activists, promoters of animal use, and participants not involved in animal-related causes. They took an online survey which included measures of sensitivity to visceral disgust, attitudes toward animal welfare, and frequency of meat eating. Animal activists were more sensitive to visceral disgust than were promoters of animal use or nonaligned participants. Disgust sensitivity was positively correlated with attitudes toward animal welfare but not with meat consumption. The relationship between animal activism and vegetarianism was complex; nearly half of animal activists ate meat, and half of the vegetarians did not consider themselves to be animal activists. We argue that conflicts over the moral status of animals reflect fundamental differences in moral intuitions.
On Animals
Henry, Bill C., and Sanders, Cheryl E.,
"Bullying and Animal Abuse: Is There a Connection?"
Society & Animals
Abstract:
In recent years, school violence has become an issue of great concern among psychologists, educators, and law-enforcement officials. The purpose of the current study was to examine the relationship between bullying, victimization, and abuse of nonhuman animals. The study assessed bullying and victimization experiences, animal abuse, and attitudes toward animals within a sample of 185 college males. Results of the study highlighted the important distinction between males involved in single episodes of animal abuse and those involved in multiple episodes of animal abuse. Further, results highlighted the significance of the bully/victim phenomenon with regard to participation in multiple acts of animal abuse. Those who were above the median with regard to both victimization and perpetration of physical bullying exhibited the highest rates of involvement in multiple acts of animal abuse and also exhibited the lowest levels of sensitivity with regard to cruelty-related attitudes pertaining to animals. The study discusses theoretical mechanisms linking bullying and animal abuse as well as directions for future research.
"Bullying and Animal Abuse: Is There a Connection?"
Society & Animals
Abstract:
In recent years, school violence has become an issue of great concern among psychologists, educators, and law-enforcement officials. The purpose of the current study was to examine the relationship between bullying, victimization, and abuse of nonhuman animals. The study assessed bullying and victimization experiences, animal abuse, and attitudes toward animals within a sample of 185 college males. Results of the study highlighted the important distinction between males involved in single episodes of animal abuse and those involved in multiple episodes of animal abuse. Further, results highlighted the significance of the bully/victim phenomenon with regard to participation in multiple acts of animal abuse. Those who were above the median with regard to both victimization and perpetration of physical bullying exhibited the highest rates of involvement in multiple acts of animal abuse and also exhibited the lowest levels of sensitivity with regard to cruelty-related attitudes pertaining to animals. The study discusses theoretical mechanisms linking bullying and animal abuse as well as directions for future research.
On Animals
Turner, Lisa
The Real Beef
Better Nutrition
Abstract:
The article provides information on health benefits of grass-fed meat. Grass-fed beef is said to be lower in fat and has lower calories than grain-fed beef. Grass-fed beef is nutritionally superior and higher in omega-3 fatty acids and contains linoleic acid. Furthermore, grass-fed meat is free of antibiotics which prevent the widespread of diseases in confined cattle and has growth hormones. It is also environmental-friendly for growing corn to feed livestock requires amounts of fossil fuel.
On Animals
L. Case
"Perspectives on domestication: The history of our relationship with man's bestfriend."
Journal of Animal Science
Abstract:
We are a nation of dog lovers. Never before in our history have we spent more time, money, and emotional energy on a group of animals that are kept solely for companionship. Pet food sales are a multi-billion dollar industry, and pet owners are spending more than 11 billion dollars each year on veterinary care. This devotion is further illustrated by the exponential growth of the pet supply industry, including increasing numbers of pet superstores, play-parks, training centers, and doggie day care centers. During the 1980s, recognition of the human-animal bond led to serious study of the roles that dogs play in our lives. These studies have shown that pets provide significant benefits to our emotional, physical, and social well being. It is ironic then, that at a time when we recognize and appreciate our bonds with animal companions, dark elements of this relationship are equally pervasive. Animal shelters in the United States kill between 3 and 4 million dogs and cats annually. Dog fighting, although outlawed, has reached epidemic proportions in some areas of the country. Episodes of animal cruelty and neglect are reported with alarming frequency in the media; so frequently that discussions of the connection between animal cruelty and human violence have become daily parlance. How then did we come to have such paradoxical perceptions and treatment of our canine companions? This question is explored through an examination of the ancestry of the dog and the prevailing myths and facts about domestication. Historical and present-day perceptions of the wolf and the impact that these attitudes may have upon perceptions ofdogs are examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
On Animals
Onyskiw, Judee E.
"The Link Between Family Violence and Cruelty to Pets"
Journal of Emotional Abuse
Abstract:
Family violence remains a prevalent social problem crossing racial, geographic, social, and economic boundaries (World Health Organization, 2002). Different forms of family violence often exist in the same households. In the 1980s, researchers observed a connection between acts of animal cruelty and family violence. Since then other researchers have corroborated their findings. Despite these articles appearing in the scholarly literature, there has been relatively little attention given to this issue in mainstream literature on family violence and little evidence that this information has been used to inform prevention or intervention efforts. This article summarizes the empirical evidence on the link between family violence and cruelty to family pets and discusses the implications of these connections for professionals who work with women, children, families, or animals.
"The Link Between Family Violence and Cruelty to Pets"
Journal of Emotional Abuse
Abstract:
Family violence remains a prevalent social problem crossing racial, geographic, social, and economic boundaries (World Health Organization, 2002). Different forms of family violence often exist in the same households. In the 1980s, researchers observed a connection between acts of animal cruelty and family violence. Since then other researchers have corroborated their findings. Despite these articles appearing in the scholarly literature, there has been relatively little attention given to this issue in mainstream literature on family violence and little evidence that this information has been used to inform prevention or intervention efforts. This article summarizes the empirical evidence on the link between family violence and cruelty to family pets and discusses the implications of these connections for professionals who work with women, children, families, or animals.
On Animals
DeGue, Sarah and DiLillo, David
"Is Animal Cruelty a 'Red Flag' for Family Violence?: Investigating Co-Occurring Violence Toward Children, Partners, and Pets."
Journal of Interpersonal Violence
Abstract:
Cross-reporting legislation, which permits child and animal welfare investigators to refer families with substantiated child maltreatment or animal cruelty for investigation by parallel agencies, has recently been adopted in several U.S. jurisdictions. The current study sheds light on the underlying assumption of these policies--that animal cruelty and family violence commonly co-occur. Exposure to family violence and animal cruelty is retrospectively assessed using a sample of 860 college students. Results suggest that animal abuse may be a red flag indicative of family violence in the home. Specifically, about 60% of participants who have witnessed or perpetrated animal cruelty as a child also report experiences with child maltreatment or domestic violence. Differential patterns of association were revealed between childhood victimization experiences and the type of animal cruelty exposure reported. This study extends current knowledge of the links between animal- and human-directed violence and provides initial support for the premise of cross-reporting legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
"Is Animal Cruelty a 'Red Flag' for Family Violence?: Investigating Co-Occurring Violence Toward Children, Partners, and Pets."
Journal of Interpersonal Violence
Abstract:
Cross-reporting legislation, which permits child and animal welfare investigators to refer families with substantiated child maltreatment or animal cruelty for investigation by parallel agencies, has recently been adopted in several U.S. jurisdictions. The current study sheds light on the underlying assumption of these policies--that animal cruelty and family violence commonly co-occur. Exposure to family violence and animal cruelty is retrospectively assessed using a sample of 860 college students. Results suggest that animal abuse may be a red flag indicative of family violence in the home. Specifically, about 60% of participants who have witnessed or perpetrated animal cruelty as a child also report experiences with child maltreatment or domestic violence. Differential patterns of association were revealed between childhood victimization experiences and the type of animal cruelty exposure reported. This study extends current knowledge of the links between animal- and human-directed violence and provides initial support for the premise of cross-reporting legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
On Animals
Ihama, Yoko
Characteristic Features of Injuries due to Shark Attacks: A Review of 12 Cases
Legal Medicine
Abstract:
Shark attacks on humans might not occur as often as is believed and the characteristic features of shark injuries on corpses have not been extensively reviewed. We describe the characteristic features of shark injuries on 12 corpses. The analysis of these injuries might reveal the motivation behind the attacks and/or the shark species involved in the attack. Gouge marks on the bones are evidence of a shark attack, even if the corpse is decomposed. Severance of the body part at the joints without a fracture was found to be a characteristic feature of shark injuries.
Characteristic Features of Injuries due to Shark Attacks: A Review of 12 Cases
Legal Medicine
Abstract:
Shark attacks on humans might not occur as often as is believed and the characteristic features of shark injuries on corpses have not been extensively reviewed. We describe the characteristic features of shark injuries on 12 corpses. The analysis of these injuries might reveal the motivation behind the attacks and/or the shark species involved in the attack. Gouge marks on the bones are evidence of a shark attack, even if the corpse is decomposed. Severance of the body part at the joints without a fracture was found to be a characteristic feature of shark injuries.
On Animals
- Bekoff, Marc
Zygon: Journal of Religion & Science
- Abstract:
"On Animals" (animals and disabilities)
Title:"HE MAKES ME SAFER"
Authors:Clark, Champ
Source:People; 4/6/2009, Vol. 71 Issue 13, p98-98, 1p, 1 color
Abstract:The article reports that a dog was trained to detect peanuts so that its owner, Riley Mers, could safely attend school. Riley Mers is in second grade, and is extremely allergic to peanuts. Her dog, Rock'O, was trained to find peanuts, and is able to protect her from traces of peanuts wherever she goes. Riley's parents, Brett and Sherry, decided to get the dog after hearing about dogs that are able to find explosives and drugs.
Authors:Clark, Champ
Source:People; 4/6/2009, Vol. 71 Issue 13, p98-98, 1p, 1 color
Abstract:The article reports that a dog was trained to detect peanuts so that its owner, Riley Mers, could safely attend school. Riley Mers is in second grade, and is extremely allergic to peanuts. Her dog, Rock'O, was trained to find peanuts, and is able to protect her from traces of peanuts wherever she goes. Riley's parents, Brett and Sherry, decided to get the dog after hearing about dogs that are able to find explosives and drugs.
On Animals
Nancy Yousef
"Interpretation: A Journal of Political Philosophy"
An artical on Animal Behovior and Evolution
Abstract:
Focuses on the concept of natural man in relation to knowledge of animal behavior in `Discourse of the Origins of Inequality Among Men,' by Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Evolution of orangutans; Concept of natural man; Knowledge of animal behavior; Argument of Rousseau on breeding and nurturing behavior of animals; Human development and evolutionary model.
"Interpretation: A Journal of Political Philosophy"
An artical on Animal Behovior and Evolution
Abstract:
Focuses on the concept of natural man in relation to knowledge of animal behavior in `Discourse of the Origins of Inequality Among Men,' by Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Evolution of orangutans; Concept of natural man; Knowledge of animal behavior; Argument of Rousseau on breeding and nurturing behavior of animals; Human development and evolutionary model.
On Animals
Petter, Mark
Musolino, Evanya
Roberts, William A.
Cole, Mark
"Can Dogs (Canis familiaris) Detect Human Deception?"
Behavioral Processes
Abstract: In a series of experiments, dogs were allowed to choose between two containers, one of which contained a food reward. In Experiments 1 and 2, a cooperative human tester pointed to the baited container on half the trials, and a deceptive human tester pointed to the empty container on the other half of the trials. Dogs learned to approach the cooperator more often than the deceiver. Inanimate cues (black and white boxes) were used as the “cooperator” and “deceiver” in Experiment 3. As was the case in Experiments 1 and 2, the dogs learned to approach the “cooperator” box more often than the “deceiver” box. Thus, the experiments indicate that dogs are sensitive to the correlation between cues and their outcomes but offer no support for the idea that dogs understand human intentionality.
Musolino, Evanya
Roberts, William A.
Cole, Mark
"Can Dogs (Canis familiaris) Detect Human Deception?"
Behavioral Processes
Abstract: In a series of experiments, dogs were allowed to choose between two containers, one of which contained a food reward. In Experiments 1 and 2, a cooperative human tester pointed to the baited container on half the trials, and a deceptive human tester pointed to the empty container on the other half of the trials. Dogs learned to approach the cooperator more often than the deceiver. Inanimate cues (black and white boxes) were used as the “cooperator” and “deceiver” in Experiment 3. As was the case in Experiments 1 and 2, the dogs learned to approach the “cooperator” box more often than the “deceiver” box. Thus, the experiments indicate that dogs are sensitive to the correlation between cues and their outcomes but offer no support for the idea that dogs understand human intentionality.
On Animals
Molnar, Csaba
"Dogs discriminate between barks: The effect of context and identity of the caller"
Journal of Behavioural processes
Abstract
In the present study we explored whether dogs (Canis familiaris) are able to discriminate between conspecific barks emitted in different contexts recorded either from the same or different individuals. Playback experiments were conducted with dogs using barks as stimuli in a habituation–dishabituation paradigm. Barks were recorded in two contexts (stranger at the fence and when the dog was left alone) from different individuals. We found that dogs distinguished between barks emitted in these two contexts and were also able to discriminate between different individuals which were barking in the same context. These findings suggest that dog bark may carry context- and individual-specific information for the conspecifics.
"Dogs discriminate between barks: The effect of context and identity of the caller"
Journal of Behavioural processes
Abstract
In the present study we explored whether dogs (Canis familiaris) are able to discriminate between conspecific barks emitted in different contexts recorded either from the same or different individuals. Playback experiments were conducted with dogs using barks as stimuli in a habituation–dishabituation paradigm. Barks were recorded in two contexts (stranger at the fence and when the dog was left alone) from different individuals. We found that dogs distinguished between barks emitted in these two contexts and were also able to discriminate between different individuals which were barking in the same context. These findings suggest that dog bark may carry context- and individual-specific information for the conspecifics.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
On Animals
Ascione, Frank R.
Shapiro, Kenneth
"People and Animals, Kindness and Cruelty: Research Directions and Policy Implications"
Journal of Social Issues
This article addresses the challenges of defining and assessing animal abuse, the relation between animal abuse and childhood mental health, the extensive research on animal abuse and intimate partner violence, and the implication of these empirical findings for programs to enhance human and animal welfare. Highlighted are recent developments and advances in research and policy issues on animal abuse. The reader is directed to existing reviews of research and areas of focus on the expanding horizon of empirical analyses and programmatic innovations addressing animal abuse. Following a discussion of forensic and veterinary issues related to animal abuse, we discuss policy issues including how the status of animals as human companions at times may place animals at risk. We also review developments in the field of human–animal relations and apply the primary–secondary–tertiary prevention public health model to prevention and treatment of animal abuse. We close with a description of community networks addressing animal abuse, interagency collaborations, and new developments in animal-related law.
Shapiro, Kenneth
"People and Animals, Kindness and Cruelty: Research Directions and Policy Implications"
Journal of Social Issues
This article addresses the challenges of defining and assessing animal abuse, the relation between animal abuse and childhood mental health, the extensive research on animal abuse and intimate partner violence, and the implication of these empirical findings for programs to enhance human and animal welfare. Highlighted are recent developments and advances in research and policy issues on animal abuse. The reader is directed to existing reviews of research and areas of focus on the expanding horizon of empirical analyses and programmatic innovations addressing animal abuse. Following a discussion of forensic and veterinary issues related to animal abuse, we discuss policy issues including how the status of animals as human companions at times may place animals at risk. We also review developments in the field of human–animal relations and apply the primary–secondary–tertiary prevention public health model to prevention and treatment of animal abuse. We close with a description of community networks addressing animal abuse, interagency collaborations, and new developments in animal-related law.
On Animals
Smith, Fraser W. and Schyns, Philippe G.
"Smile Through Your Fear and Sadness"
Psychological Science
Abstract:
It is well established that animal communication signals have adapted to the evolutionary pressures of their environment. For example, the low-frequency vocalizations of the elephant are tailored to long-range communications, whereas the high-frequency trills of birds are adapted to their more localized acoustic niche. Like the voice, the human face transmits social signals about the internal emotional state of the transmitter. Here, we address two main issues: First, we characterized the spectral composition of the facial features signaling each of the six universal expressions of emotion (happiness, sadness, fear, disgust, anger, and surprise). From these analyses, we then predicted and tested the effectiveness of the transmission of emotion signals over different viewing distances. We reveal a gradient of recognition over viewing distances constraining the relative adaptive usefulness of facial expressions of emotion (distal expressions are good signals over a wide range of viewing distances; proximal expressions are suited to closer-range communication).
"Smile Through Your Fear and Sadness"
Psychological Science
Abstract:
It is well established that animal communication signals have adapted to the evolutionary pressures of their environment. For example, the low-frequency vocalizations of the elephant are tailored to long-range communications, whereas the high-frequency trills of birds are adapted to their more localized acoustic niche. Like the voice, the human face transmits social signals about the internal emotional state of the transmitter. Here, we address two main issues: First, we characterized the spectral composition of the facial features signaling each of the six universal expressions of emotion (happiness, sadness, fear, disgust, anger, and surprise). From these analyses, we then predicted and tested the effectiveness of the transmission of emotion signals over different viewing distances. We reveal a gradient of recognition over viewing distances constraining the relative adaptive usefulness of facial expressions of emotion (distal expressions are good signals over a wide range of viewing distances; proximal expressions are suited to closer-range communication).
Saturday, November 7, 2009
On Animals
Kordower, Jeffrey H.
" Animal Rights Terrorists: What Every Neuroscientist Should Know."
Journal of Neuroscience
Abstract:
" Animal Rights Terrorists: What Every Neuroscientist Should Know."
Journal of Neuroscience
Abstract:
- In this article the author discusses the tactics used by animal activists to forward their agenda in the U.S. He is critical on the violent attacks done by some animal-rights activists on members of the Society for Neuroscience (SfN) in California, Utah, and Oregon. Moreover, he advices members of the SfN to sign in on a website created by University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), and download the documents that would be presented before any attacks would occur.
CHRISTIAN THE LION
During our discussion of Alice Walker's "Am I Blue?" Nat mentioned another interspecies connection in the story of Christian the lion. Here's a link to one of many YouTube videos on the lion:
Friday, November 6, 2009
On Animals
Ascione, Frank R., and Shapiro Kenneth
"People and Animals, Kindness and Cruelty: Research Directions and Policy Implications"
Journal of Social Issues
Abstract:
This article addresses the challenges of defining and assessing animal abuse, the relation between animal abuse and childhood mental health, the extensive research on animal abuse and intimate partner violence, and the implication of these empirical findings for programs to enhance human and animal welfare. Highlighted are recent developments and advances in research and policy issues on animal abuse. The reader is directed to existing reviews of research and areas of focus on the expanding horizon of empirical analyses and programmatic innovations addressing animal abuse. Following a discussion of forensic and veterinary issues related to animal abuse, we discuss policy issues including how the status of animals as human companions at times may place animals at risk. We also review developments in the field of human–animal relations and apply the primary–secondary–tertiary prevention public health model to prevention and treatment of animal abuse. We close with a description of community networks addressing animal abuse, interagency collaborations, and new developments in animal-related law.
"People and Animals, Kindness and Cruelty: Research Directions and Policy Implications"
Journal of Social Issues
Abstract:
This article addresses the challenges of defining and assessing animal abuse, the relation between animal abuse and childhood mental health, the extensive research on animal abuse and intimate partner violence, and the implication of these empirical findings for programs to enhance human and animal welfare. Highlighted are recent developments and advances in research and policy issues on animal abuse. The reader is directed to existing reviews of research and areas of focus on the expanding horizon of empirical analyses and programmatic innovations addressing animal abuse. Following a discussion of forensic and veterinary issues related to animal abuse, we discuss policy issues including how the status of animals as human companions at times may place animals at risk. We also review developments in the field of human–animal relations and apply the primary–secondary–tertiary prevention public health model to prevention and treatment of animal abuse. We close with a description of community networks addressing animal abuse, interagency collaborations, and new developments in animal-related law.
ON ANIMALS
Herzog, Harold A., and Lauren Golden,
“Moral Emotions and Social Activism: The Case of Animal Rights"
Journal of Social Issues
Abstract:
Why do some people and not others become involved in social movements? We examined the relationships between a moral emotion—disgust—and animal activism, attitudes toward animal welfare, and consumption of meat. Participants were recruited through two social networking websites and included animal activists, promoters of animal use, and participants not involved in animal-related causes. They took an online survey which included measures of sensitivity to visceral disgust, attitudes toward animal welfare, and frequency of meat eating. Animal activists were more sensitive to visceral disgust than were promoters of animal use or nonaligned participants. Disgust sensitivity was positively correlated with attitudes toward animal welfare but not with meat consumption. The relationship between animal activism and vegetarianism was complex; nearly half of animal activists ate meat, and half of the vegetarians did not consider themselves to be animal activists. We argue that conflicts over the moral status of animals reflect fundamental differences in moral intuitions.
“Moral Emotions and Social Activism: The Case of Animal Rights"
Journal of Social Issues
Abstract:
Why do some people and not others become involved in social movements? We examined the relationships between a moral emotion—disgust—and animal activism, attitudes toward animal welfare, and consumption of meat. Participants were recruited through two social networking websites and included animal activists, promoters of animal use, and participants not involved in animal-related causes. They took an online survey which included measures of sensitivity to visceral disgust, attitudes toward animal welfare, and frequency of meat eating. Animal activists were more sensitive to visceral disgust than were promoters of animal use or nonaligned participants. Disgust sensitivity was positively correlated with attitudes toward animal welfare but not with meat consumption. The relationship between animal activism and vegetarianism was complex; nearly half of animal activists ate meat, and half of the vegetarians did not consider themselves to be animal activists. We argue that conflicts over the moral status of animals reflect fundamental differences in moral intuitions.
Monday, November 2, 2009
SCHOLARLY VS. POPULAR TEXTS
Click here for a handout that lists some distinctions between scholarly and popular texts.
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