The Reflection We Resist

Abstract

“The Reflection We Resist” examines how Frans de Waal’s Mama’s Last Hug and G.A. Bradshaw’s Elephants on the Edge challenge the belief that emotion and morality are uniquely human. Through close readings of chimpanzee empathy and elephant grief, the project suggests that denying animal emotion often stems from our discomfort with recognizing ourselves in other species. Together, these texts call for a reimagining of personhood rooted in shared empathy across species.

For additional context, listen to the author's reflection on the piece below.