Nollman Ch.1
By Michael Martinez (04/27/10 00:24:21)
1. When Nollman says he would like to learn from animals as opposed to about them he means he wants to have an active part in their collaboration. What Nollman does, and what we can learn from him is that we should not have preconceived notions about animals. We should be open minded and allow animals to participate.

2. When Nollman started experimenting with the turkey it was more about doing something without regard for the turkey. Nollman would play his instruments to see how the turkey would react. When he played with the turkey he fostered a positive environment for the turkey to be active and participate equally in.

3. The problem with humans communicating with non-humans is that it is assumed more often than not that animals think like use, or communicate in a similar matter. I think this is very true, we know what we know and if we are not used to thinking in ways other than how we normally do, we will automatically assume they are like us. We should have a more open ended style communication in which we discuss with animals the way they want to, or reveal to us.

4. Nollman felt like a shaman because he was no longer observing but participating with the turkey. This participation exceeded beyond the musical performances. When Nollman participated with the turkey he started to think like and understand a turkey that seemed to surpass normal communications.

5. While he is an animal lover he feels like zoology is not done out of love for animals. He feels there is a disconnect between the scientist and their work and the respect they should have for the animal. He also feels that the work done with animals, when harmful, serves no purpose no matter the gains. While I do agree that humans often fail to understand animals as intelligent beings, I feel the view on animal testing is a bit harsh. I feel that testing animals for medical research is great, not on-board for cosmetic purposes. I feel it is a bit selfish to let others die when a cure could be close by, but would requite testing on animals. While I don't know with any certainty what animal research facilities are like, but i feel that there could always be improved and the process made more open and copacetic.


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