The Posthuman Imperative: From the Question of the Animal to the Questions of the Animals

Colombino, Annalisa; Giaccaria, Paolo

doi:10.1007/978-3-030-77155-3_11

Cited by 4 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…Geography as a discipline has helped posthumanism become a key approach in the social sciences [48], thus highlighting the role of animal geography as an essential contribution to the posthuman pursuit of animal studies [46]. Humanist geographers have employed posthumanist theory to shift away from the dominant anthropocentric view, aiming for a better understanding of non-human entities based on "actions, emotions, and affects" [49].…”

Section: Posthumanism In the Context Of Human-animal Interactionsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Living with Bears in Prahova Valley, Romania: An Integrative Analysis

Cimpoca,

Voiculescu,

Creţan

et al. 2024

Animals

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Our research focuses on a complex and integrative analysis of bear presence in four tourist resorts in Prahova Valley, Romania: Sinaia, Bușteni, Azuga and Predeal. Employing innovative mixed methods, including questionnaires, interviews, newspaper analysis, and consideration of the local toponymy, including bear-related names and souvenirs, we aim to highlight the extent to which a posthumanist attitude is evident in the region. The sustained appearance of bears is attributed to habitat invasion through deforestation, road construction, residential neighborhoods, and tourist infrastructure. Ambiguity arises from the presence of food sources and voluntary feeding both by locals and tourists. The mass media initially heightened fear and panic during the onset of human–bear interactions but later adopted a more tolerant tone regarding the bear’s presence in tourist resorts, reflecting an openness to the posthumanist approach in Prahova Valley. That is why locals express fear and concern about bear encounters, advocating for a clear separation between animal and human spaces. Tourists exhibit attitudes ranging from unconscious appreciation to ambivalence, often contributing to the problem through practices such as feeding bears for fun. The use of bear-related names for tourist establishments is identified as anthropocentric, despite their appeal for attracting tourists. Souvenir sales, through increasing socio-economic value and contributing to tourist experiences, are also recognized as anthropocentric. However, souvenirs can provide elements of support for bear conservation efforts and the equal consideration of human and non-human entities. This study concludes that a successful adaptive coexistence requires a posthumanist vision, overcoming anthropocentrism in a landscape altered by human activities, supported by bear management programs in Bucegi Natural Park, and conservation efforts in Prahova Valley in a landscape altered by people.

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Section: Posthumanism In the Context Of Human-animal Interactionsmentioning

confidence: 99%