Siebert implies that humans and animals are equivalent to one another. He then further discusses the concept of an “interspecies culture.” A culture pertains to a certain species, its traditions, values, etc. OED defines culture as “the cultivation or development of the mind, faculties, manners, etc.; improvement by education and training.” Humans differ from animals in their train of thoughts, actions, language, and behavior. Although there may be similarities between elephants and humans, there is still a culture clash. Siebert’s essay “The Elephant Crackup” tries to break that hierarchical barrier between animals and humans. Humans are supposed to respect and take care of animals; however, there are too many significant differences between both species to form one, distinct culture.
Reading Closely, Reading Widely: A blog for students of Expos 101
In which ways for example do you believe that humans and other animals think differently? At the end of the day, aren't we all motivated by the same primal forces (Hunger, Desire to reproduce, etc.)?
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