How do different food system actors understand and perform current and future roles of animals within food systems, and how do these roles vary across different geographical contexts?
Context and Relevance:
Understanding how different food system actors perceive and enact the roles of animals in food systems is crucial for shaping the future of agriculture and food production. This involves examining not only current and future roles but also historical framings and the role of education in shaping these perspectives. Such an analysis can reveal how cultural, economic, and policy factors influence these roles and provide insights into more inclusive and sustainable food systems.
Potential Research Approach:
Literature Review: Investigate historical and contemporary framings of animals as food across different cultures and food systems. Examine existing research on the roles of animals in food systems and how these roles have evolved over time. Explore how animals are understood and performed in various disciplines, including social sciences, animal sciences, and economics.
Comparative Case Studies: Conduct case studies across different regions and cultures to explore how food system actors (e.g., farmers, policymakers, consumers) understand and perform the roles of animals. Compare these findings to identify patterns and variations in animal roles across different contexts.
Post-Human Research Methods: Develop and apply research methods that incorporate the agency of animals and recognize their role in shaping food systems. Use post-human perspectives to include animal perspectives and actions in the analysis of food systems.
Educational Analysis: Examine how animals are framed in educational settings related to food systems. Analyze curriculum content, teaching practices, and student perspectives to assess how education influences perceptions of animals in food systems.
Historical Studies: Explore historical changes in the use of animals in food systems and the impact of past practices on current systems. Investigate lessons learned from historical shifts, such as the replacement of animal labor, and their relevance to current and future food systems.
Additional Questions:
How do different food system actors understand and perform the roles of animals in food systems across various cultural and geographical contexts?
What historical factors have influenced the current roles and framings of animals in food systems?
How can animals’ own actions and agency impact the way they are framed and utilized in food systems?