Nonhuman Turn

I attended the Ethics section in The Nonhuman Turn conference. There were two presenters; the topics presented were Companionable Objects, Companionable Conscience and Ethology become ethics: exploding Uexkull. The former of the two discussed the heritage of the Tau Tau and their symbolism relating to their culture. These highly respected figures not only symbolize deceased family members they are also considered a work of art-- highly recognized. Because of their value the original artifacts are hidden away in a private place. Leaving replicas displayed for their beauty and symbolism.

The latter of the two topics discussed Uexkull specifically Romanticism, Vitalism, and Conservation, and Place not Space. This presenter was a little more difficult for me to understand. Possibly because it seemed the topic was more abstract to grasp than what I'm used to. However, there was one concept presented relating to Uexkull which was the notion of modernity being soulless, ultimately abandoning God. Also the idea of our senses created to comprehend nature, not God. This particular statement made me ponder the concept of creation and nature. Especially focusing in on animals and their ability to survive on nature alone. Their senses especially were made to comprehend nature. This was the most moving argument I got from second speaker in the conference.

Out of the two presenters and their relation to our class the second specifically discussed animals and contradicting Uexkull's viewpoint. However, the first presenter didn't really discuss the image of animals, yet culture and traditions in rural third world villages. I found the Tau Tau experience the most interesting, primarily because it was on the a topic I had no idea existed and it does play close to heart on so many of these individuals living in the village. There is nothing more intimate than preserving or discussing a loved on that past, and pictures along with the presentation only solidified than notion.