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The Changing Status and Perception of Animals

Leslie Irvine

In this course, we explore how mainstream understandings of animals and human-animal relationships have changed in recent years. Module 1 focuses on the roles of animals in human physical health and psychological well being. Module 2 explores animal selfhood, particularly in light of their inability to use spoken language. Finally, Module 3 examines some of the collective efforts undertaken when the treatment or use of animals comes to be seen as inhumane, immoral, and worthy of ameliorative social action.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Healing
In this module, you will examine the role of animals in human health well being.
Selfhood
In this module, you will critique conventional perspectives on animals as lacking inner lives and consider evidence of emotions and a sense of self among animals.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the changing relationships between humans and animals in recent times, offering a comprehensive overview of current perspectives on animal welfare and the ethical treatment of animals
Examines the role of animals in human physical and mental health, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of animal companionship and the importance of animal-assisted therapy
Critiques conventional views on animal selfhood, considering evidence of emotions and a sense of self among animals, challenging traditional assumptions about their cognitive abilities
Explores the ethical implications of the treatment and use of animals, fostering critical thinking about animal rights and the responsibilities humans have towards other species
Covers a range of topics essential for understanding the complex relationship between humans and animals, including animal welfare, animal ethics, and the role of animals in society
Taught by Leslie Irvine, an experienced and respected scholar in the field of human-animal studies, ensuring the course is informed by cutting-edge research and insights

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Reviews summary

A deep dive into animal ethics

According to learners, this course offers a truly eye-opening and thought-provoking exploration of human-animal relationships. Many highlight its academic rigor and comprehensive, nuanced content, particularly praising modules on animal selfhood and human-animal health connections. Students consistently find the instructors passionate and knowledgeable, making complex ethical dilemmas accessible. While largely positive, some learners note the course can be quite theoretical, wishing for more practical examples or direct action strategies. A few also mention the extensive readings and a preference for more dynamic learning styles, though many find the content highly relevant and up-to-date.
Course material covers modern and relevant issues.
"The readings were fascinating and current."
"The content is very relevant and presented beautifully."
"The course material is up-to-date and covers a wide range of relevant issues."
Led by knowledgeable instructors with evident passion.
"The instructor's passion really shines through."
"The instructors are clearly experts, and they manage to make complex ethical dilemmas accessible."
"The instructors are passionate and knowledgeable."
Offers profound insights that challenge conventional views.
"This course was truly eye-opening! The content on animal selfhood really challenged my preconceptions, and the discussions around animal rights were incredibly thought-provoking."
"Absolutely brilliant! As someone who works in animal rescue, this course gave me a much deeper understanding of the historical and philosophical underpinnings of animal perception."
"The exploration of animal cognition and emotion was profound. It challenged my perspective significantly."
Primarily lectures and readings, lacking interactive elements.
"I found this course somewhat disappointing. While the topic is important, the delivery was dry. It felt like watching a long academic lecture with very little engagement."
"I sometimes wished for more visual aids or diverse formats. The readings were extensive, which is good for depth, but can be a lot if you're not fully dedicating time."
"The format can be quite passive, mainly lectures and readings."
Deeply philosophical, less focused on practical application.
"The course has interesting ideas, but it felt a bit too theoretical for me. I was hoping for more practical examples or case studies related to animal advocacy, not just philosophy."
"I was looking for more on policy or practical advocacy. The content is well-researched, but the format can be quite passive..."
"Good for academics, perhaps less so for those seeking direct action strategies."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Changing Status and Perception of Animals with these activities:
Watch a documentary about the history of animal rights activism
Gain a better understanding of the historical context and evolution of animal rights activism.
Browse courses on Animal Rights
Show steps
  • Choose a documentary from a reputable source
  • Watch the documentary
  • Summarize the main points of the documentary
Practice identifying and classifying different types of animals
Strengthen your understanding of the different characteristics and behaviors of animals.
Show steps
  • Use an online animal identification tool
  • Visit a zoo or animal shelter
  • Read books or articles about animal classification
Read the book 'Animal Rights and Human Obligations' by Martha Nussbaum
Develop a solid understanding of the philosophical arguments for animal rights.
View Justice for Animals on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the introduction and first three chapters
  • Summarize the main arguments in each chapter
  • Identify and define the key terms used in the book
  • Write a short essay analyzing one of the arguments presented in the book
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in an online discussion forum on animal ethics and welfare
Engage with diverse perspectives on animal ethics and welfare.
Browse courses on Animal Rights
Show steps
  • Join an online discussion forum
  • Read and respond to other participants' posts
  • Share your own thoughts and experiences
Volunteer at a local animal shelter or rescue organization
Gain hands-on experience working with animals and learn about the challenges they face.
Browse courses on Healing
Show steps
  • Research local animal shelters or rescue organizations
  • Apply for a volunteer position
  • Attend volunteer training
  • Work with the animals at the shelter or rescue organization
Create a presentation about the importance of animal welfare
Develop your knowledge and communication skills on animal welfare.
Browse courses on Animal Rights
Show steps
  • Research the topic of animal welfare
  • Gather data and evidence to support your presentation
  • Create a slideshow presentation
  • Practice your presentation
Write a blog post about your own experiences with animals
Gain a deeper understanding of your own relationship with animals and how it shapes your perspectives on animal rights.
Show steps
  • Reflect on your past experiences with animals
  • Identify the emotions and thoughts you experienced in these interactions
  • Write a blog post that shares these experiences and insights

Career center

Learners who complete The Changing Status and Perception of Animals will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Veterinarian
Veterinarians care for the health and well-being of animals. They diagnose and treat illnesses, perform surgeries, and provide preventive care. This course would be helpful for veterinarians because it provides a comprehensive overview of the role of animals in human health and well-being. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for veterinarians.
See salaries and explore the career path for Veterinarian
Animal Trainer
Animal trainers work with animals to teach them specific behaviors. They may work with animals in a variety of settings, such as zoos, aquariums, and private homes. This course would be helpful for animal trainers because it provides a foundation in animal behavior and psychology. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the training of animals, which is an important consideration for animal trainers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Trainer
Animal Caretaker
Animal caretakers provide care for animals in a variety of settings, such as zoos, animal shelters, and private homes. They may feed, clean, and exercise animals, and they may also provide medical care. This course would be helpful for animal caretakers because it provides a comprehensive overview of the role of animals in human health and well-being. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for animal caretakers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Caretaker
Zoologist
Zoologists study animals and their behavior. They may work in a variety of settings, such as universities, museums, and government agencies. This course would be helpful for zoologists because it provides a foundation in animal behavior and psychology. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for zoologists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Zoologist
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife biologists study the behavior and ecology of wild animals. They may work in a variety of settings, such as universities, government agencies, and conservation organizations. This course would be helpful for wildlife biologists because it provides a foundation in animal behavior and psychology. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for wildlife biologists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Wildlife Biologist
Conservation Biologist
Conservation biologists work to protect and conserve wildlife and their habitats. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, conservation organizations, and universities. This course would be helpful for conservation biologists because it provides a foundation in animal behavior and psychology. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for conservation biologists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Biologist
Animal Welfare Officer
Animal welfare officers investigate and enforce laws that protect animals from cruelty and neglect. They may also work with animal shelters and rescue organizations. This course would be helpful for animal welfare officers because it provides a comprehensive overview of the role of animals in human health and well-being. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for animal welfare officers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Welfare Officer
Animal Rights Activist
Animal rights activists work to promote the rights of animals and to end animal cruelty. They may work with animal welfare organizations, lobby for animal protection laws, and educate the public about animal rights issues. This course would be helpful for animal rights activists because it provides a comprehensive overview of the role of animals in human health and well-being. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for animal rights activists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Rights Activist
Animal Behaviorist
Animal behaviorists study the behavior of animals. They may work with a variety of animals, such as pets, zoo animals, and wildlife. This course would be helpful for animal behaviorists because it provides a foundation in animal behavior and psychology. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for animal behaviorists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Behaviorist
Pet Groomer
Pet groomers bathe, brush, and trim the fur of pets. They may also provide other services, such as nail trimming and ear cleaning. This course may be helpful for pet groomers because it provides a foundation in animal behavior and psychology. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for pet groomers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pet Groomer
Pet Sitter
Pet sitters care for pets in the owner's absence. They may feed, walk, and play with pets, and they may also provide other services, such as administering medication and cleaning up after pets. This course may be helpful for pet sitters because it provides a foundation in animal behavior and psychology. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for pet sitters.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pet Sitter
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians with the care and treatment of animals. They may perform a variety of tasks, such as taking vital signs, administering medication, and preparing animals for surgery. This course may be helpful for veterinary technicians because it provides a foundation in animal behavior and psychology. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for veterinary technicians.
See salaries and explore the career path for Veterinary Technician
Animal Control Officer
Animal control officers enforce laws that protect animals from cruelty and neglect. They may also respond to calls about loose or dangerous animals. This course may be helpful for animal control officers because it provides a comprehensive overview of the role of animals in human health and well-being. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for animal control officers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Control Officer
Animal Shelter Manager
Animal shelter managers oversee the operation of animal shelters. They may be responsible for a variety of tasks, such as hiring and training staff, managing the budget, and ensuring the welfare of the animals in the shelter. This course may be helpful for animal shelter managers because it provides a comprehensive overview of the role of animals in human health and well-being. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for animal shelter managers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Shelter Manager
Animal Science Educator
Animal science educators teach about animals and their care. They may work in a variety of settings, such as schools, universities, and zoos. This course may be helpful for animal science educators because it provides a comprehensive overview of the role of animals in human health and well-being. The course also explores the ethical issues surrounding the treatment of animals, which is an important consideration for animal science educators.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Science Educator

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Changing Status and Perception of Animals.
Cover image
Historical Dictionary of Environmentalism
Save
A seminal work in the animal rights movement, this book argues that animals are entitled to basic rights, including the right to life and freedom from suffering.
Historical Dictionary of Environmentalism...
Hardcover
$$$$
Historical Dictionary of Environmentalism...
Hardcover
$$$$
Historical Dictionary of Environmentalism...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Different Kinds of Minds
Save
Provides a unique perspective on animal selfhood and communication, drawing on Grandin's own experiences with autism.
Different Kinds of Minds: A Guide to Your Brain
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Dogs Have the Strangest Friends
Save
A classic work that challenges traditional views of animal emotions and intelligence, providing evidence of their capacity for complex emotions.
Dogs Have the Strangest Friends (And Other True...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Atheism and Agnosticism
Save
Examines the ethical implications of our food choices, particularly with regard to the treatment of animals.
Atheism and Agnosticism: Exploring the Issues...
Hardcover
$$
Atheism and Agnosticism: Exploring the Issues...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Emotional Lives of Animals
Save
Explores the evolution of animal intelligence and the implications for our understanding of the human mind.
The Emotional Lives of Animals
Paperback
Check
The Emotional Lives of Animals
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Animal Manifesto
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of animal cognition, including topics such as learning, memory, problem-solving, and communication.
The Animal Manifesto: Six Reasons for Expanding Our...
Paperback
$$
Saving Animals from Ourselves: A Manifesto for...
Paperback
$$
The Animal Manifesto: Six Reasons for Expanding Our...
Kindle Edition
$
Saving Animals from Ourselves: A Manifesto for...
Kindle Edition
$

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Course image
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Leslie Irvine
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a collection called Animals and Society. It's comprised of three courses:
  1. Animals, Self, and Society
  2. The Changing Status and Perception of Animals (viewing)
  3. Animals and Institutions
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the changing relationships between humans and animals in recent times, offering a comprehensive overview of current perspectives on animal welfare and the ethical treatment of animals
Examines the role of animals in human physical and mental health, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of animal companionship and the importance of animal-assisted therapy
Critiques conventional views on animal selfhood, considering evidence of emotions and a sense of self among animals, challenging traditional assumptions about their cognitive abilities
Explores the ethical implications of the treatment and use of animals, fostering critical thinking about animal rights and the responsibilities humans have towards other species
Covers a range of topics essential for understanding the complex relationship between humans and animals, including animal welfare, animal ethics, and the role of animals in society
Taught by Leslie Irvine, an experienced and respected scholar in the field of human-animal studies, ensuring the course is informed by cutting-edge research and insights
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