EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIOCULTURAL ASPECTS OF HUMAN – ANIMAL RELATIONS

Abstract

This article explores the process of anthropomorphism in human perceptions of animals. It is noted that anthropomorphic representations of animals are introduced to individuals from early childhood, starting with stories, cartoons, and educational literature. The study analyses anthropomorphic representations of natural phenomena and animals encountered in current primary school textbooks. It concludes that the frequency of encountering anthropomorphic representations of animals undeniably influences the developing worldview of children. In adulthood, anthropomorphism attributing non-characteristic traits and qualities to animals leads to erroneous social and personal decisions. Overcoming these negative phenomena should be based on reevaluating the role of the animal world in human survival, developing ecoethics, environmental education, and rejecting harmful stereotypes imposed by education and culture.