Too cute to kill? From the depiction of animals in children’s literature to the framing of government policy by adults

21-22 July 2016

 

This was a two day truly interdisciplinary workshop held at the University of Surrey with the following objectives: 1) develop an understanding of how the framing of animal species can help or hinder policy development and public engagement by government in the areas of disease control, animal welfare, and biodiversity; 2) form of a novel national/international network between complementary disciplines with an interest in exploring the concept and origin of how animal species are framed and the impact this has on policy development; 3) identify research questions and provide an opportunity to develop research plans. The event was co-organised by the Schools of Veterinary Medicine, Psychology, English and Languages from the University of Surrey and the Department of Modern Languages & European Studies from the University of Reading. 28 participants from 5 countries, including five keynote speakers, attended the workshop which included presentations, panel discussions and interactive working groups. An important outcome was the recognition of the importance of animal welfare researchers being engaged in ethical debate, policy formation, regulatory mechanisms and their enforcement.

 

For more information please visit: http://www.ias.surrey.ac.uk/workshops/animalsdepiction/report.php