News Bulletin - Australian Animal Studies Group

science and policy to quantify, control and exterminate these beasts illustrates how readily
‗dangerous‘ animals have been constructed in line with cultural sensitivities rather than biology. But
what makes an animal dangerous?
Why do ancient animosities towards snakes persist through millennia, while equally enduring fears
of frogs and toads fade away? Why is the venomous platypus considered cuddly, yet furry funnelweb
spiders provoke disgust? How do humans decide when it is safe to go back in the water, and
why does a howl of ‗Shark‘ empty beaches in moments? Moreover, how does perception or ‗proof‘
of dangerousness alter the moral standing of animal species, permitting practices such as
vivisection, culling or outright eradication? Drawing upon cultural theory and biology, history and
current policy, this seminar will explore the aversive aspect of human-animal relations, with
particular emphasis on Australian circumstances and examples.
Chair: Dr Nancy Cushing, School of Humanities and Social Science, University of Newcastle
Presenters: Peter Hobbins, Department of History, University of Sydney, Christopher Neff,
Department of Government and International Relations, University of Sydney
For more information about the seminar or the Group see: http://sydney.edu.au/arts/research/harn
ring+61 2 9036 5342 or email: fiona.probyn-rapsey@sydney.edu.au
University of Newcastle
Local Lives/Global Networks: The Australian Sociological Association Annual Conference
Dr Helen Masterman-Smith presented a paper on an animal studies topic at this very recent
conference held 29 November-1 December 2011. Here is her abstract:
―Sentient Nature and the World of Work‖
While the relationship between labour and non-sentient nature is receiving growing attention, the
significance of sentient nature or non-human animals to the world of work has been poorly
canvassed, with the exception of a few insights from the sociology of animals field. Some of the
latter studies have examined workers‘ experiences of alienation from non-human animals and its
hidden costs. Others have underscored the interconnections between social justice, ecological and
animal struggles, upon which an alliance politics is advocated. This paper considers some of the
difficulties and possibilities associated with this proposition. While labour and animal advocates
found common ground in opposing the live export trade, larger problems arising from the often
violent interactions between workers and non-human animals have tended to be avoided or been a
source of hostility. The vulnerability of both workers and non-human animals often brings them
together in sectors like the socially and ecologically destructive animal industrial complex. This
does not necessarily mean that workers do not appreciate the intrinsic value of other animals and
nature generally or fail to recognise that their own wellbeing rests on non-violent relationships with
them. The interconnectedness of their exploitation is the most likely basis for forging a political
alliance.
For details about the conferences see: http://www.tasa.org.au/tasa-conference/2011-tasaconference/
Vegan Society NSW
On 9 December the launch of Vegans Are Cool, a collaborative book written by members of the
global vegan community, took place at the Redfern Community Centre. With a delicious collection
of vegan yummies to sample, from cupcakes to savoury delights, this was a no-alcohol, family
friendly event aimed to introduce non-vegans to the variety and tastiness of vegan cuisine.
Vegans Are Cool was written by 63 vegans from around the world. Several of these beautiful
people were present at the party to sign copies of the book. To find out more visit:
www.vegansarecool.com
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