Can we understand other animals? How do animals understand each other? What can we say about inter-species communication? How do the human and other species influence each other in the light of history, and in current habitats? What is the position of humans within the larger biosphere, when we consider current scientific knowledge? Today, our view of the relationship between humans and other species is on the move.

In the symposium The Human and Other Animals six renowned researchers from bio- and human sciences discuss the changing relationships between human and other species: differences, similarities, understanding and its limits, influences, and responsibilities. The perspectives come from multispecies historical research, infection- and evolutionary ecology, zoo-anthropology, cultural studies, and philosophy.

Panelists: Otto Latva, University of Turku, Eva R. Kallio, University of Jyväskylä, Johanna Mappes, University of Helsinki and University of Jyväskylä, Sonja Koski, University of Helsinki, Sanna Karkulehto, University of Jyväskylä, Elisa Aaltola, University of Turku.