Cultural Dimensions of Well-Being

Reviews / Votes

The 21st century continues to bring technological and medical solutions providing what should be happier and healthier societies, yet we find a surge of belief and commitment to an intrinsic and unscientific trust in the healing abilities of animals. Fujimura and Nommensen examine social science evidence in cultural narratives of human-animal relations to discover the connection with human healing and well-being. A compelling and heart-warming read for the animal lover in all of us. -- David G. Smith, Naval War College; Co-author of Athena Rising: How and Why Men Should Mentor Women I have had associations with a dozen varieties of pets and a long life with dogs: training, breeding, judging, instructing, and participating in the many activities that man and a dog can do together. I find this book to be very readable and a remarkable compilation of information. -- Kenneth M. Nagler, Canine Training Association An enlightening analysis of human-animal communication and connection for professionals, scholars, and pet owners alike. The history of animal-assisted therapy and pet therapy, and the examples of beliefs about animals drawn from various world cultures (attitudes toward strays and "metro dogs" in Russia, or pets as playthings for traditional elites in Japan) are fascinating to read. The authors articulate an ethical, positive vision of the mutual benefits of human-animal interaction in training, companionship, and service. We are better people for reading this book. -- Elizabeth Knutson, professor emerita, United States Naval Academy