This course explores how animals and people are situated within the web of structures and connections known as “society.” Module 1 considers some of the key symbolic roles that animals play in society by investigating the practice of “thinking with animals.” We investigate how people construct different meanings of animals and the implications these meanings have for both animals and humans. You will gain first-hand experience of this by analyzing how animals are represented in the media. Modules 2 and 3 investigate human-animal relationships, including those that involve suffering as well as those that are beneficial. Although many people describe their pets as friends or family members, Module 2 takes a deeper dive into what constitutes friendship and family membership where other species are concerned. Module 3 examines the dark side of these relationships, focusing on animal abuse and its relationship to domestic violence. Module 4 focuses on people’s encounters with those animals outside the boundaries of the home and the farm. The way people understand and regard the species commonly considered “wild” shapes the treatment and moral status of these animals.
Animals, Self, and Society
This course is part of Animals and Society Specialization
Instructor: Leslie Irvine
6,089 already enrolled
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(130 reviews)
What you'll learn
Demonstrate knowledge of how animals serve as symbols and metaphors in the media
Summarize the practices and interactions that allow for human-animal relationships
Identify the major factors that lead to animal abuse
Represent instances of human-wildlife conflict
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There are 4 modules in this course
In this module, you will gain an understanding of how we socially construct animals.
What's included
6 videos1 reading1 assignment3 discussion prompts
In this module, you will examine the interaction between humans and the animals we consider pets.
What's included
3 videos2 discussion prompts
In this module, you will investigate the process of defining animal abuse and its relationship with other aspects of society.
What's included
3 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
In this module, you will explore key questions about the interactions between humans and wild animals.
What's included
4 videos1 reading1 peer review1 discussion prompt
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University of Colorado Boulder
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Colorado Boulder
The University of Edinburgh
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Reviewed on Jul 30, 2023
Excellent course on human-animal relationships. The assigned tasks are manageable and invite the learner to apply the information taught in the course to their surroundings.
Reviewed on Sep 29, 2020
Excellent course. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Lots of very good information!!
Reviewed on Nov 21, 2020
A really great course, easy to follow lectures and great information! I had a really fun time with it, and the peer graded assignment really solidified what I had learnt. I definitely recommend! :)
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