What Can Humans Learn from Animals?

Human societies have long used non-human animals for economic purposes, food supplies, transportation, sports, religious rituals, and even protection. Human beings are thus always connected to animals, as we also know from the complex relationships that bind people to the dogs, cats, and other pets with whom they share their lives. The study of animals and the defense of animal rights have altered our understanding of these fellow sentient beings, but what can humans actually learn from animals? We’ll explore this question with experts on the history of race and culture in America, the history of ancient Greek literature, and the history of modern biology. Humanists are redefining the symbolic, cultural, and material meanings of animal/human interactions, and this seminar will offer new perspectives for everyone who cares about animals or thinks about their own mysterious connections with a pet.

SCHEDULE OF TOPICS & SPEAKERS

Thursday, March 25 at 5:00 pm

Animal Liberation and Black Histories of Resistance
Sharon P. Holland, Townsend Ludington Distinguished Professor and Chair of American Studies

Thursday, March 25 at 6:45 pm

Acting Like Animals Acting like Men: Aesop, Aristophanes, and Becoming a Better Human
Al Duncan, Assistant Professor of Classics

Friday, March 26 at 5:00 pm

Community Matters: Nature’s Insights into the Value of Relationships
Karin Pfennig, Professor of Biology

Friday, March 26 at 6:30 pm

Why are Animals Essential for Our Culture—and What Do They Teach Us About the Meaning of Our Lives?
A panel discussion with our speakers

TUITION

This webinar is a virtual event. Tuition is $50, which includes “admission” to the webinar in real time (with live Q&A) as well as access to the recorded talks to watch at your leisure for up to 2 weeks after posting. Registrants will receive instructions for accessing the event online the morning of March 25.

**Save money by purchasing a season pass to all 5 spring webinars for only $175 ($150 for GAA members).**

Register here or call us at 919.962.1544.

Online registration closes at midnight the night before the event. For same-day registration, please call our office at 919.962.1544.

Co-Sponsored by the General Alumni Association.

For information about GAA discounts and other scholarships available to Humanities Program participants, click here.

Tuition is complimentary for any currently teaching, full time K-12 teachers. If you are eligible, click here to register. Complimentary teacher registration closes one hour before the start of the event.