What Does the Future Hold for Human-Animal Studies with Dr. Ken Shapiro?
- Marika
- Apr 23
- 3 min read
The evolving relationship between humans and animals is a fascinating topic that continues to challenge and inspire scholars, advocates, and everyday animal lovers alike. In the latest episode of "The Deal with Animals" podcast, I sit down with Dr. Ken Shapiro, a leading figure in human-animal studies. We explore the intricacies of our interactions with animals and the significant evolutionary paths this field might take.
The Current Landscape of Human-Animal Studies
Dr. Ken Shapiro, celebrated for his pioneering work with the Animals and Society Institute, provides a deep dive into the journey of human-animal studies, revealing its historical roots and the trajectory it's likely to follow. He explains that although the Animals and Society Institute is closing, the journal "Society & Animals" will persist, symbolizing the field's resilience and ongoing importance. Human-animal studies have transitioned into a recognized academic discipline, fostering both theoretical and practical frameworks for understanding the complexity of interspecies relationships.
Kinesthetic Empathy: Understanding Animal Subjectivity
As one of my areas of interest involves the use of Critical Anthropomorphism also called Bio-morphism, one of my favorite topics we discussed was Dr. Shapiro's exploration of kinesthetic empathy as a means of understanding animal subjectivity. This concept posits that by observing the physical expressions and histories of animals, we can gain insights into their lived experiences, thus bridging the gap between human and animal consciousness.
Addressing Contradictions in Human Treatment of Animals
A major challenge in human-animal relations is the cultural contradiction of empathy alongside exploitation, such as love for pets versus industrial farming practices. Dr. Shapiro notes that this is as much a societal issue as it is a psychological one, rooted in historical and cultural beliefs that have long separated humans from other animals.
Advances in Technology and Their Impact
Technology's role in animal advocacy and science also takes center stage. Lab-grown meat and alternatives to animal testing, such as organs on a chip, are highlighted as transformative developments that could profoundly reduce animal exploitation. Dr. Shapiro sees these innovations as pivotal moments comparable to the domestication of animals, fundamentally altering how society interacts with the animal world.
The Role of Social Media in Animal Advocacy
Our discussion also touches on the dual nature of social media's impact. It has provided unprecedented access to knowledge about animals but has, paradoxically, decreased direct, physical contact. This dynamic serves as both a boon and a barrier in education and advocacy efforts.
Transformative Experiences with Animals
Dr. Shapiro shares insights into how transformative experiences with animals can lead to advocacy and change. Whether through empathy formed in early childhood, intellectual breakthroughs, or confronting societal injustices against animals, these life-changing moments ignite passion and action in human-animal advocates.
A Look into Posthumanism
Posthumanism is a movement challenging human exceptionalism. This shift encourages a broader, more inclusive view of the world, which has significant implications for how we perceive animal rights and environmental ethics.
Conclusion
Dr. Ken Shapiro's work underscores a crucial turning point; while humanity grapples with environmental and ethical challenges, adopting a more unified, empathetic approach to all living beings offers a hopeful path forward.
Show Notes:
Special Episode! Transcript
" It seems to me that development could be as revolutionary as the domestication of animals itself 10, 000 years ago." - Dr. Shapiro
Guest Bio: Dr. Kenneth Shapiro is cofounder and President of the Board of Animals and Society Institute, and founding editor of Society and Animals and other human-animal studies publications. With a BA from Harvard in American Studies and a PhD in Clinical and Personality Psychology from Duke, his work spans vegetarianism, animal advocacy, and critiques of lab research. He’s published books, including Animal Models of Human Psychology (1998), and guides on treating animal abuse. Based in Washington Grove, MD, he tends to a bluebird trail, a pollinator meadow, and enjoys vegan cooking. Learn more at animalsandsociety.org.
Book Recommendation: Abundant Earth: Toward an Ecological Civilization by Eileen Crist
Related Episodes: 93: Human Relevant Testing: A Conversation on Enhancing Human Health and Animal Welfare with Dr. Aysha Akhtar (S9)
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