Article
Social Narratives Surrounding Dolphins: Q Method Study
Society and Animals
(2006)
Abstract
In preparation for development of an exhibit on the cognitive abilities of dolphins, the Wildlife Conservation Society sought to determine potential visitor's social perspectives about dolphin intelligence, and how these beliefs might influence acceptance of scientific information. The study reported here used Q methodology to identify these underlying social perspectives. The study of adults and the study of children each revealed three distinct perspectives. While consensus emerged among adults on points about dolphins' high intelligence and communication abilities, the three perspectives differed in their acceptance of the extent of self-awareness, learning capacity, and affinity for humans shown by dolphins. Among children, consensus emerged about dolphins' physical abilities, but analysis found differences in belief regarding instinctive versus intentional behavior, mystical connections, and dolphins' relationship to humans. Agreement among all of these perspectives, particularly on the topic of communication, suggests powerful common ways to begin thinking about dolphin cognition. Conversely, the unique attributes of each perspective, and the potential for interaction between individuals with differing perspectives in an exhibit setting, provide opportunities to engage visitors in discussion about animal intelligence.
Keywords
- Dolphins,
- Q methodology,
- Social perspectives,
- Animal intelligence
Disciplines
Publication Date
2006
DOI
10.1163/156853006778882457
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2016 Koninklijke Brill NV
Citation Information
Thomas Webler, Jessica Sickler, John Fraser, Diana Reiss, et al.. "Social Narratives Surrounding Dolphins: Q Method Study" Society and Animals Vol. 14 Iss. 4 (2006) p. 351 - 382 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/thomas-webler/31/