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
6,314 already enrolled
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(134 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
Skills you'll gain
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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 Jan 4, 2022
This specialization covers interation between ourselves as a human and other species.It will challenge your thinking and beliefs. Well worth taking even if it is not in your normal area of interest.
Reviewed on May 12, 2022
Course is very informative. WARNING - If you sign up as audit, it will noe let you complete unless you upgrade to paid certificate course.
Reviewed on Oct 5, 2023
I got ever best learning. Thank you, Coursera, and thank you university of colorado
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Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
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