How To: Interspecies Communication
Collaborating With Animals: What Does It Really Mean?
By Alex Inigo (06/06/06 00:45:39)
Over the course of the quarter, we've encountered many challenges, surprises, and bloopers that sometimes render our collaboration into a disaster. It's important to note however, that these other species are as emotional and cooperative as any human could be. There's many factors that may hinder an artist, whether traditional or otherwise, in trying to cope with the conditions with working with another species. Though I will unwittingly deny any expertise in the field, let it be known that the field - despite having many individuals who claim expertise - is still at its infancy and that you, as an artist interested in this fascinating field, is as good an expert as any other.

1. Remove any preconceptions about the species you are working with.
Most individuals who work with other species are deterred by the idea because of the "obvious" knowledge that we are the smarter species. In order to communicate something to another species, one must not assume dominance over another, as this can possibly create a form of hesitation toward the subject. Try to cater to the species' basic needs and instincts and learn from their actions...

2. Establish trust between you and the species (if applicable).
Sure, this step might not be applicable when you're working with mixing microscopic organisms and food coloring, but can be extremely helpful if you're working with certain species in a much more intimate environment. Establishing trust makes the species more akin towards working with you in addition to making them attempt to be more emphatic about your goals in collaborating with them.

3. Consider that other species react to certain kinds of stimulation differently than humans.
Keep in mind that certain methods of interaction may incite a reaction that, though may seem familiar, may be one that is predatory or insulting to the species. Being observant can help in figuring out when the opposite species is tired, unwilling to work, or hungry. It is important that these bare essentials need to be met as well.

4. Putting yourself in the situation of the species sometimes doesn't work.
This bullet point goes along with number one. Like said in the previous bullet point, sometimes species behave differently... so what you think might be good for the other might be considered bad. Think twice about what you do and observe their reaction to it.

5. Research!
Oddly enough, the most efficient way to communicate with other species is to learn how other humans have done it before you. Wikipedia, though vastly user populated, has reference links at the bottom of each related title (such as Animal Cognition or Animal Communication) that can be further reading if you doubt any of the text on there. Remember that though the goal of interspecies collaboration is to collaborate with non-human species, other humans have attempted what you have already done. In short, don't reinvent the wheel if someone has already tried, experienced, and have written about it.


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