Day 314 Zoos

November 17, 2015
Day 314

The Burkholder Zoo Animal

Zoos, have you ever thought about zoos? I am currently reading, skimming, gulping down a book called "Zooland The Institution of Captivity" written by Irus Braverman, an Associate Professor of Law and Adjunct Professor Geography at the University of Buffalo.   Yes, I did a double take as well. What's Law or Geography got to do, got to do with zoos (Oh Tina)?

Why am I reading this?  The Wider School science class is studying Wildlife and in light of that pursuit we are creating a zoo with unlimited resources. Imagination never requires bailouts and so our Zoo is going to be awesome. The concepts I am reading in this book have been uttered by the creative thinkers and learners in the Wider science class.

We have created a mission statement. It is simple and straightforward: to promote learning and a love of animals in a fun and enjoyable environment.  Students know how to cut to the chase and through the tangled mess of verbiage to get straight to the point. Zoos have not lost their appeal.  They are still a viable and enjoyable option. "One would expect that an ancient institution such as the zoo would have long exhausted popular appeal, particularly in comparison with high-tech attractions like amusement parks. But the zoo continues to attract the masses." (p.25)

Irus Braverman in answering the question, "what is it that makes zoos so attractive in today's society of spectacles," has made me think. His answer is simple and cuts to the chase. He answers with one word, "Nature."