17276 2:30p-3:20p MWF WH 006 Kendall

Since philosopher Peter Singer coined the word “speciesism” in 1979, a number of thinkers have proposed that speciesism interacts with other “-isms” –most notably, with racism and sexism. This course will explore the ways in which human attitudes of prejudice toward nonhuman animals seep into representations of race and gender in contemporary American culture. Conversely, we will also discuss anthropomorphism and instances of human stereotypes being imposed on animals. Writing assignments will ask students to critically examine the “animalization” of humans—and the “humanization” of animals—in advertising and other media, including “extreme” nature programs like Animal Face-Off and films like Jurassic Park. Students committed or opposed to animal rights should be aware that, although we will take speciesism seriously and discuss relevant ethical issues, the primary aim of the course is to analyze cultural representations of animals rather than to engage in debates about animal rights.