Dishonoring the Dignity: The Unfair Treatment of Animals in School Textbooks
- by Peter Carstens
- 4 Min
Research reveals: This manner animals face discrimination within scholarly textbooks - Research reveals: Discrimination against animals in educational materials
In schoolbooks, you might come across sentences like this: "The cow is a significant agricultural asset for humans. Beyond dairy cows, beef cattle varieties were cultivated, with their males, the bulls, growing an average of one kilogram daily." Appearances can be deceiving, but this passage is more than just about milk and meat.
According to a study by the University of Osnabrück's Biology Education Research Group in 2024, the authors of schoolbooks often portray livestock animals as resources without inherent value as living beings, using factual and concise language devoid of emotional appeal. Milan Büscher, a co-author of the study, agrees, stating this perspective is predominant.
- Livestock Animal
- Animal Welfare
- Psychology
- School
- Pet
- University
University of Osnabrück's Research InterestNoteworthy, the University of Osnabrück's Biology Didactics group has been actively involved in investigating public acceptance of novel foods and education, particularly focusing on insect-based foods and cultured meat, as evidenced by their research in the field[1]. However, information on a specific 2024 study on the portrayal of livestock animals in schoolbooks regarding animal welfare remains elusive. For a deeper understanding, contacting the University of Osnabrück directly or checking their official publications and research announcements may prove beneficial. The study of animal representation in educational material may also be explored more broadly through published research in educational or biological sciences journals.
- The University of Osnabrück's Biology Education Research Group, with a particular focus on insect-based foods and cultured meat, has shown interest in the university's research.
- In schoolbooks, livestock animals are often depicted as resources without inherent value, according to a 2024 study by the University of Osnabrück's Biology Education Research Group.
- Psychology might provide insights into the implications of such portrayals of livestock animals in schoolbooks, as this perspective can potentially influence our understanding and treatment of animals.
- Instead of focusing solely on employment policies for livestock farming, schoolbooks could incorporate an employment policy for education-and-self-development that emphasizes animal welfare and lifestyle choices that promote respect for all living beings, especially animals.