Blog 5

For my research paper I wanted to write about the human-animal relationship and I know that I need to find a focus before I start going to in-depth with my research. Right now I am thinking that I could talk about the role pets play in the American household. Why do we feel compelled to own pets and what makes pets so appealing? Most kids in the United States grew up with one species of pet or another (some kids, like me, grew up with over 50 pets in and out of the house). Is pet ownership something we desire on a more intuitive and primitive level or is it strongly influenced by social pressures and encouragement? I think on some level humans are happy to own pets because of their need for power and control over another being, however it could also be an attempt to meet an intuitive need for emotional satisfaction and care; which animals tend to provide. My personal feelings towards animals are that they teach responsibility, compassion and patience as well as providing a friend to children and an overwhelming sense of joy and love (you can probably already see my bias). I don't know if anyone has any input as to how to make my paper a more dynamic and interesting essay. If anyone can think of anything cool or interesting let me know!