Perception vs. Reality for Chimpanzees
Chimpanzees are an endangered species, but does seeing them in
commercials, ads and other media portrayals make people think they don't
need protection? A recent study looked at how public perceptions are
influenced by media images.
Study Summary
This study, conducted by a research team affiliated with the Lincoln Park Zoo and the University of Chicago, investigated the effects that media portrayals of chimpanzees have on the public's understanding of the species.
The study relied on digital images portraying chimpanzees in different
ways (with and without clothing, with or without humans present, in
natural and unnatural settings), and then surveyed respondents' beliefs
and attitudes after viewing the images.
Based on the survey
replies, the authors concluded that "the results of this study have
identified a significant influence of an overlooked aspect of popular
culture and suggest that important conservation efforts might be
hampered by practices previously thought to be harmless. Specifically,
these data provide empirical support for scientific and conservation
organizations that have called for the end of chimpanzees in the
entertainment industry."
Policy Implications
Advocates
have argued against the use of animals in entertainment and media for
decades. This is evidence of the damaging impact that media can have on
conservation efforts regarding chimpanzees in particular, but similar
adverse effects may also apply to other vulnerable species.
- Che Green, Humane Research Council (8/16/2011)
Derived
from: Ross, S.R., Vreeman VM, Lonsdorf EV, 2011. Specific Image
Characteristics Influence Attitudes about Chimpanzee Conservation and
Use as Pets. PLoS ONE 6(7): e22050. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0022050
The
ASI was notified of this study by the Humane Research Council (HRC),
which maintains a comprehensive database of public opinion research at
HumaneSpot.org. The ASI and HRC already collaborate on multiple
projects, and we will work together to identify important studies for
future Research Nutshells.
Published by admin on 12/26/2011 10:24:13
