Multispecies Worlds: Animals, Global Health, and Environment

3 units

Amid escalating global environmental and health crises that impact all forms of life, this course critically considers the diverse relationships of humans with other forms of life and varied ecological systems. Although anthropology has long studied humans' use of and impact on environments, anthropologists have begun to increase their focus on human-animal cohabitations, engagements, and shared cultures and worlds. This seminar looks at how diverse contemporary contexts -- such as zoos, farms, forests, and laboratories -- involve fascinating human-animal relationships and contentious implications for ethics, health, and ecology. In investigating how animals are central to scientific knowledge production, debates about animal welfare, environmental sustainability issues, companionship and pets, entertainment and sports, and zoonic disease, we will explore the possibility for more richly understanding the world by fully appreciating species diversity and interconnectivity.