Sympathy for animals, but not people?
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Chris Hoofnagle at denialism blog discusses why we care more for animals than people. Some of the reasons listed were:
...pampering pets, the replacement of children with pets, animals' helplessness, anthropomorphism, the link between cruelty to animals in childhood and adult sociopathy.
But then an interesting explanation is given. We don't self-identify with animals like we do with people. And thus we don't need to distance ourselves from the cause of the tragedy.
Thus we rationalize that a crime victim shouldn't have ventured into a certain neighborhood at a certain time, or consorted with people of ill-repute, or been careless about locking their doors, or dabbled in drugs -- whatever might have jacked up their risk of jeopardy.
We simply don't play the same "blame game" with animals.
What do you think?
Thursday, August 16, 2007 at 10:48:00 PM CDT
I have been wondering about this issue too as in India even though there is a huge problem strays, who bite people (many instances of kids being mauled to death) a great number of people show more sympathy for strays rather than small kids! I too am against cruelty to animals but the problem in india has become huge. I feel that those who sympathise with animals more than people, are a little removed from people in their daily life, I don't know but I am guessing. I knew one 'tree' activist and in person she was very difficult to get along with. But I am coming to conclusion without any basis actually by knowing a few people so I have no idea if I am right. I am probably wrong!
btw, when one clicks on your name, one is taken to your old blog.
Friday, August 17, 2007 at 6:57:00 AM CDT
Thanks for your follow-up, Nita. I think even when people feel for humans it doesn't prompt them to try to help like it does for animals.
Which name are you clicking on? I tried to see if it was the title of the blog or my name on my post or profile, but I can't find what you're referring to. Your help is appreciated!
Friday, August 17, 2007 at 12:19:00 PM CDT
I clicked on your name when you left a comment on my blog and thats when I reached your old blog.
Friday, August 17, 2007 at 3:31:00 PM CDT
Got it! Both blogs were named the same thing. I updated the text on the old blog to indicate it was the old blog.
Thank you!