Concern for Animals Among Hunter-Gatherers

Cross-Cultural Research • Vol/Iss. 0(0) • SAGE Publications Inc • • Published In • Pages: 10693971241234109 •
By Thompson, Barton A.

Abstract

Do hunter-gatherers show concern for animals? Through an assessment of six types of concern across 28 hunter-gatherer groups, the author of this article finds that concern for animals is multifaceted. Feelings of overall indifference and callousness towards animals were exhibited in all hunter-gatherer groups; however, high levels of concern were shown towards animals regarded as pseudo-humans or pseudo-spirits.

Samples

Sample Used Coded Data Comment
eHRAF World CulturesResearchers' OwnCollected ethnographic material for 28 hunter-gatherer societies.

Hypotheses (6)

HypothesisSupported
Hunter-gatherers will not show sympathetic concern for animals that are identified as prey or predatorial animal agents.Supported
Hunter-gatherers will show concern for animals that are perceived as pseudo-kin agents.Supported
Hunter-gatherers will show concern for animals when it is believed that there are consequences for their treatment.Supported
Hunter-gatherers will show concern for animals that exhibit respected traits found in humans.Supported
Hunter-gatherers will show protective concern for young and needy animals.Partially Supported
Hunter-gatherers will show indifference or callousness towards animals that are identified as prey or predatorial animal agents.Supported
Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: isanaraja  seb.wanggaouette