Just a Dog: Understanding Animal Cruelty and Ourselves
Table of Contents
Author: Arnold Arluke
Series: Animals, Culture and Society
Publisher: Temple University Press, 2006
ISBN: 1592134718, 9781592134717, 9781592134731
Introduction
Just a Dog by Arnold Arluke offers a groundbreaking sociological exploration of animal cruelty, challenging traditional views that frame it solely as a psychological disorder or legal violation. Instead, Arluke dives into the lived experiences and perspectives of those involved in acts of cruelty, revealing the complex social and cultural meanings behind these behaviors[1][2].
Key Themes
- Decontextualization of Animal Cruelty: Arluke argues that current legal and psychiatric definitions ignore the social contexts and self-understandings of perpetrators[1][2].
- Varied Perspectives: The book draws on interviews with over 250 people including humane agents, college students, hoarders, shelter workers, and PR experts, showing how different groups interpret cruelty and use it to shape their identities and ideologies[1][3].
- Social Interaction and Identity: How cruelty is understood and enacted is linked to broader social roles and community dynamics[3].
- Ethical Complexities: The book probes difficult questions such as the ethics of euthanasia in shelters and the societal ambivalence toward animals[1][3].
Audience and Relevance
This book is essential reading for:
- Scholars and students in sociology, psychology, animal studies, and law interested in the social dimensions of cruelty.
- Animal welfare professionals seeking deeper insight into the human factors behind cruelty.
- Critical readers who want to understand the nuanced relationships between humans and animals beyond simplistic moral judgments.
Its blend of academic rigor and accessible narrative makes it suitable for both specialists and the general public interested in animal ethics and social justice[3].
Why Download Just a Dog?
- Gain a fresh perspective on animal cruelty beyond legal and clinical frameworks.
- Understand the social identities and cultural narratives that sustain cruelty.
- Equip yourself with knowledge to inform debates and policies on animal welfare.
Download Your Copy Now!
Click the button below to download Just a Dog: Understanding Animal Cruelty and Ourselves in PDF format and enrich your understanding of this critical topic.
[Download Just a Dog (PDF)]
Summary
Just a Dog dismantles simplistic notions of animal cruelty by centering the voices and experiences of those involved in cruelty cases. Through rich qualitative research, Arluke reveals how cruelty is socially constructed and intertwined with human identity and ideology. This book is a vital resource for anyone seeking to understand the ethical and social complexities behind our treatment of animals.
Call to Action
Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of animal cruelty through a sociological lens. Download Just a Dog today and join the conversation on how we relate to and care for animals in society.
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