Biologists estimate that three species per hour are being driven to extinction by human activity. Approximately 23 billion animals are being raised for human consumption in concentrated animal feeding operations. The massive loss of biodiversity, on one side and concern for the wellbeing of domesticated species, on the other side, underscores the urgency of bringing the non-human animal world back into historical focus. This seminar acknowledges that non-human species have not only been the victims of human action but also the pioneers, partners and competitors in forging today's world. Beginning with reflections on the signal part played by invertebrates, such as silkworms, and birds, like the macaw, in the rise of long-distance commerce, this seminar pays particular attention to the role of certain mammalian species in the development of modern economies, social relations, science, and governance. In addition to exploring the current historiography, students will be introduced to the interdisciplinary field of Animal Studies which seeks to address (and reassess/redress) the human/extra-human relationship.
