Companion Species

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Definition

The concept of companion species was first brought to into use by cyborg scholar Donna Haraway. She used the term as an exploration into the historical emergence of animals who are not meat animals, lab animals, wilderness animals, war dogs, vermin or pariah dogs, but who are part of a very particular historical relationship.[1]

Although they are non-human actants, cell phones could be considered a companion species. They cry, and must be picked up. They must be plugged into a wall at night to be fed. They must be upgraded, protected, and cared for. In return, they provide information, connectivity and entertainment.

References

  1. Haraway, Donna. Birth of the Kennel: A Lecture by Donna Haraway. August 2000. http://www.egs.edu/faculty/donna-haraway/articles/birth-of-the-kennel/ Accessed Jun 2010.