quote:
Originally posted by emag:
Why Don't People Like Snakes?
Here's how I see it, you don't have to agree:
Because people are scared of what they don't know anything about.
It's the same with my birdeating spiders.
By far most people I talk to, are scared shitless to some extent when I tell 'em about my hobby.
But usually, I can get them to reconsider there views, by explaining exactly what the spiders can, and more importantly can not do...
As long as something is unknown, it's "mystical and dangerous", but once you know all about it, or, know alot about it, it becomes so ordinary that you'll need to study every little detail, to find something new and "mystical"...
The best thing you can do IMHO, is to do everything you can to educate people.
Study everything you can, about the animal in question, so that you can answer any questions people might have.
That way, you'll come off as a pro in the field, people will know that you know your stuff and respect you for it, and listen when you speak.
New knowledge will seep into their heads, and what was "mystical and dangerous", will become fascinating.
If you're really good, convince a reporter that he or she should write an article about snakes, or get in touch with a TV station and get them to make a program.
Write a book about snakes.
Shamlessly promote snakes every chance you get, correct the media when they say something that isn't true, visit schools and tell the kids all about these fascinating and misunderstood animals.
At least that's what I do with the spiders, and I've had lots of people telling me I've changed their view on the big birdeaters, and in some cases even cut their arachnophobia down a good deal.
Just my 2¢...
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