The Covid Pandemic, ‘Pivotal’ Moments, and Persistent Anthropocentrism: Interrogating the (Il)legitimacy of Critical Animal Perspectives

Situated alongside, and intertwined with, climate change the relentless destruction of ‘wild’ nature, global Covid-19 pandemic should have instigated serious reflection on our profligate use careless treatment other animals. Widespread references to ‘pivotal moments’ need for a reset in human relations with ‘nature’ appeared promising. However, important questions surrounding pandemic’s origins its wider context continue be ignored and, as result, this moment has proved anything but pivotal To explore disconnect, paper undertakes an analysis dominant Covid discourses across key knowledge sites comprising mainstream media, major organizations, academia, including prominent animal advocacy organizations. Drawing core tenets Critical Animal Studies, concept critical perspectives is advanced way assess these illegitimacy alternative ways thinking about Broadly, it found that fail engage mechanisms by which uses nature animals are justified – specifically binary thinking, normalization naturalization hierarchical categories use, commodification their lives bodies or specify scope practices change. These knowledge, also thus reflect while contributing ongoing delegitimation. Exacerbating situation movement itself, attributed part factionalism diversity poorly articulated aims. Mainstreaming normalizing never been more necessary. Extended beyond offer potentially productive practical approaching endeavour so future moments may truly humans nonhumans alike.