Emile van der Zee
Abstract
This chapter presents several theories that explain our complex, ambiguous and ubiquitous relationship with other animals. It also discusses how anthropomorphic prejudice (seeing animals as humans) may impact on theories and research findings in human-animal interaction. For example, the chapter looks at such research areas as pain perception and self-awareness to determine how anthropomorphic prejudice impacts on these areas, and what the current state of research tells us about these issues. The chapter advocates the scientific study of human-animal interaction to avoid prejudice, and also provides some guiding principles to help us in this endeavour, for example, the use of Ockham’s razor in explaining apparently complex behaviour (making no more assumptions than necessary, such as using explanations based on basic behavioural mechanisms where assuming intentionality on the part of an animal would also be possible).
Reading recommendations
Beck, A. M. (2014). The biology of the human–animal bond. Animal Frontiers, 4(3), 32-36.
Beetz, A. M. (2017). Theories and possible processes of action in animal assisted interventions. Applied developmental science, 21(2), 139-149.
Shipman, P. (2011). The animal connection: a new perspective on what makes us human. WW Norton & Company.
Wilson, E. O. (1986). Biophilia. Harvard university press.
Zilcha-Mano, S., Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2011). An attachment perspective on human–pet relationships: Conceptualization and assessment of pet attachment orientations. Journal of Research in Personality, 45(4), 345-357.
Web resources and Presentation recommendations
Defining Anthropomorphism with Robert Mitchell – ASI’s Defining Human-Animal Studies: link here
Defining Theory of Mind with Alexandra Horowitz – ASI’s Defining Human-Animal Studies: link here
Inside the minds of animals – Bryan B Rasmussen: link here
Activity
Does anthropomorphism apply to non-human animals? Consider the following videos, and try to determine for yourself what emotional, cognitive or social interactions you can recognise in the species involved. Please be aware that some of the contents may generate a highly emotive response.