Extra Credit: Zoom Chat Week 3

Finally having the chance to talk to new people was absolutely amazing. Because of the pandemic, I rarely get to see new faces that are not hidden behind a mask or even have a conservation about something other than Covid. In the meeting, we discussed multiple aspects about animal science and how students will be able to use their findings for future essays. One specific piece of advice Professor McClure noted was to make sure that we are not writing about environmental management and instead focusing on animal research and rights.

Furthermore, each student illustrated what they are considering writing about in their Literature Review Essay. Some students talked about possibly researching birds, elephants, and marine life whereas I was considering conducting research about dogs and their ability to make friendships.

We then transitioned to human selfishness and whether that determines if animals have the ability to be emotional like humans. One student expressed that humans are greedy and only care about power and money, even at the expense of animal life. As a result, if the people in power can make more money over unethical acts dealing with animals, then they will, without hesitation. They support their inhumane actions with the idea that animals are nowhere near humans and are incapable of mourning or suffering like humans can. Because of their inability to have emotions, some humans believe they have the right to treat animals in any way they desire. This selfishness disrupts animal rights and these ideas about animals are false.

Animals have been seen grieving, demonstrating intelligence, and creating friendships. For example, in the meeting, we discussed how elephants pause whenever they come across elephant bones in order to show their gratitude and grief. There was also a famous story that Professor McClure shared with us about a dog named Hachiko who traveled to the train station every day to greet his owner. Even after his owner died, Hachiko continued to go to the train station until he too died. As a whole, we discussed how these examples of animals demonstrate that they truly can experience emotions and pain.

At the end of the meeting, we discussed a future discussion post about a dog named Lucky, who saved our lives, and a human named Fred, who constantly discussed annoying conspiracy theories. Majority of the students said that if they were given the chance to save one life, they would save Lucky. The reason for this was because Lucky already saved our lives, was not selfish, and would make the world a better place. On the other hand, Fred was the opposite of Lucky. He was annoying and sounded like he wanted to show that he was superior. Additionally, we made the conclusion that animal life should not be worth more than human life. Taking everything into consideration, saving Lucky seemed like the better option.

I am on the top left of the picture :)