PSS3720 - People and other animals: Studying the relationship between humans and other species

Leader(s): Dianne Wuillemin

Offered

Gippsland Second semester 2009 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit examines the interaction between humans and the other animal species across three major topics. The first reviews the changing nature of the relationship between man and domestic animals across time within selected cultures. The second topic focuses on attitudes, beliefs, and emotions surrounding the interaction between people and companion animals, and animals as objects of leisure and entertainment. Topic three takes an objective approach to the emotive area of animals as food and providers of other products and services and considers ethical issues associated with each of these.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. outline the historical background that undepins the current relationship between animals and humans in a variety of settings;
2. demonstrate knowledge of the factors that affect the relationship of humans with animals as companions, leisure and entertainment;
3. critically evaluate attitudes towards animals as sources of products and labour;
4. outline the various ethical considerations involved in current uses of animals.

Assessment

Written work: 40%
Oral presentaion/poster: 20%
2 hour Exam: 40%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 1 hour seminar) per week

Prerequisites

48 points of study in any discipline