Section II of Humanistic project
Kellert discusses the subject of symbolism. The following
topics are discussed: how we use natural terms in speech
(Kellert, 74), determining human identity by symbolizing
nature in dreams and myths (Kellert, 76 and 79), how people
relate to captive wildlife (Kellert, 98), the role of the
domesticated animal especially looking at the emotional
attention that some place on their animal (Kellert, 106),
and how animals are portrayed in television.
Kellert begins by saying that natural imagery and symbolism
is a part of human life. It is beneficial in human
evolution and development by doing the following three
things: language acquisition, psychological development, and
everyday communication and thought.
Meanwhile the learning of language relies on the capacity to
sort objects into categories or classification. Now why
does this make a difference? If one has clear boundaries
they are able to separate distinct objects. This is usually
talked about in reference to a child. Paul Shepard had the
following statement to say about the situation, "Hundreds of
centuries of human experience have generated our drive to
master the skills of category…(Kellert, 76)
Kellert goes on to say that their identity can be seen to be
derived from myths, fairytales, and fantasies. The three
help people to encounter and resolve difficult aspects about
a person's emotional development. The three can effect a
person's identity because by helping people cope with
authority versus independence, order versus chaos, good
versus evil, and love versus sexuality. Other issues that
are resolved through the use of nature's imagery through
myths, fairytales, and fantasies are fundamental issues of
human maturation, identity, and self-hood. (Kellert, 77)
All of the above use the mind's visions to illustrate the
use of natural symbols to find a psychological balance. So
this helps a person find a better well being.
Not only is nature symbolized through a person's dreams but
it is also used in communication and thought. The world of
advertisement is a prime example of this idea.
Advertisement uses a variety of images of nature. The
companies use these images as a way for the consumer to
purchase the product that they are trying to sell. Examples
of this can be seen at the Super Bowl commercials. Here the
Super Bowl "reveals the extent of this reliance on
symbolizing nature, especially animals." (Kellert, 80)
Another example can be found at toy stores. Here cartoon
characters, abstract logos with animals are placed all over.
These images are combining the natural world with symbolic
meaning.
For the end of the year project I wish to study the above
idea on images in the media. There are many animals that
are said to have connected phrases or added meaning to their
image. I want to know if this is try, I want to find out
what is the first image that comes to people's head when
they hear or see a particular animal.
Next Article
Previous Article
Return to Research Progress Menu