Pets

Exploring the intricate bond between humans and animals, Pets examines the deeper meanings behind our relationships with domesticated creatures.

Why do we choose to live with pets? Is our bond with them merely one of companionship, or is there something deeper at play? In Pets, Erica Fudge delves into the complexities of our relationships with animals, examining the challenges of truly understanding what it means to share our lives with these creatures. Through the lens of philosophy and literature, she invites readers to consider the nuances of this connection, questioning who really benefits from our companionship.

Fudge argues that our capacity for compassion is evident in our interactions with pets, who serve as both sources of comfort and sources of perplexity. What does it say about us as humans when we bring animals into our homes? In Pets, Fudge posits that these animals are not just companions but integral members of our families, shaping our identities and reflecting our values. By exploring the works of modern thinkers like J. M. Coetzee and Jacques Derrida, she illustrates how pets challenge our simplistic notions of the human-animal divide.

Ultimately, Pets reveals our deep-seated obsession with domestic animals, highlighting the paradoxes and ambiguities inherent in our lives. It prompts us to reconsider our understanding of possession, love, and cohabitation. For anyone curious about the thoughts and feelings of their furry friends, this insightful book offers a fresh perspective on what it truly means to live with pets.