The dog in the history of human societies
Dogs have always been companions to humans, although their role in human societies has changed dynamically depending on the specific culture or civilisation. Originally, dogs served humans, assisting in hunting, performing a defensive function, and in some cultures, were reduced to a food source.
Family member and cultural hero
Today, the dog's role in human society is radically different from its original role. Not only is the dog a man's most faithful friend and a full-fledged family member, but it also sometimes becomes a surrogate child—a "dog baby" Dogs are the subjects of school readings, countless films, paintings, graphic novels and many other manifestations of culture and art.
The dog in literature – between submissiveness and spiritual depth
The most eminent writers wrote about dogs, ascribing to them, on the one hand, a lack of honour and excessive submissiveness (F. Kafka), and on the other hand suggesting that we can learn from them the depth of feelings and attachment (J. M. Coetzee, L. Tolstoy, O. Tokarczuk, J. Bator), while they, unfortunately, learn nothing good from us (M. Bulgakov).
Dog symbolism – cultural differences and values
So, what are dogs like and can we, as humans, really get to know and understand them so as not to attribute our own characteristics to them and not to include them in human systems and value schemes?
The perception of dogs in human cultures and societies, and what they symbolise, varies significantly depending on the cultural context. For example, in some Native American cultures, dogs are a symbol of dishonour and betrayal, while in Japanese culture, for example, canine devotion and loyalty are so highly valued that several statues of the dog Hachikō have been erected in Tokyo, and a project to place Shiba Inu puppies on banknotes has captured the hearts of Japanese internet users. Therefore, attitudes toward dogs are a touchstone of cultural and religious values, as evidenced by the ongoing debates surrounding the death of dogs – do dogs die or perish?
– says the discussion moderator, Prof. Natalia Lemann.
The limits to humanisation – questions for reflection
The dynamic changes in the perception of "four-legged friends" provoke discussion and a number of questions, including the limits to the humanisation of dogs.
- Is attributing human behaviours and emotions (joy, laughter, despair) to dogs justified, or is this a manifestation of anthropomorphisation? After all, in many memes, dogs laugh at us…
- How do language and culture reflect the changing role of dogs – are we their owners, caregivers, or partners?
- Where are the limits to the humanisation of dogs – are dog fashion, hairstyles, or a vegetarian diet an expression of care or an imposition of human stereotypes?
- Can we raise dogs with respect for their nature, without projecting our own expectations and emotions onto them?
- Can excessive anthropomorphisation lead to a misunderstanding of dogs' identity and the harming of "non-human persons"?
The event participants will seek answers to these numerous questions. We cordially invite you to join us!
