Entangled in Language: The Linguistic Capture of Non-human Animals (original) (raw)

Abstract

We cannot separate the role of language and discourse from social attitudes toward non-humans. This is not an inherently new observation, but with this paper I would like to suggest viewing the connection between language and human-animal ethics in terms of three linked manifestations, classified as follows: users of language, definitions, and available vocabulary within the dominant discourse. “Users of language” refers both to the dominance of English (and its attendant cultural perspectives) in the worldwide scientific community, and also to the importance of animal communication and language studies in ethical arguments. “Definitions” relates to how concepts like “mind,” “consciousness,” or “culture” are contested and defined with respect to non-humans. Additionally, the defining of terms such as “pain,” “distress,” and even the term “animal” itself is debated. All of these terms are important in ethical arguments. Finally, “available vocabulary” indicates limitations imposed on...

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