The relationship between humans and non-humans has changed radically over recent history. Theorists Kathryn Shanley and Matthew Calarco argue that humans and non-humans, particularly in animal studies and ecocriticism, are more egalitarian than was previously accepted. When dealing with intersubjectivity, a difficult idea for the human point of view to adopt reveals that human superiority is non-existent; in its place there is a kind of give-and-take relationship between human and non-human subjects. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Both Shanley and Calarco address the need for humanity to recognize that nonhuman beings may possess qualities that humanity does not possess and yet can benefit from being in relationship with. In We Are All Completely Outside Ourselves, the researchers conducting a linguistic experiment using human and non-human subjects show “no interest in scientifically tracing the abilities that Fern claims that Rosemary may lack” (Calarco 619). Fern being the non-human subject, the social experiment between the two subjects is strictly limited to the capabilities of humankind, while Rosemary admits that the only advantage she has over Fern is speech (as cited in Calarco 620). There is a clear disconnect between beings; however, we see in the novel that Rosemary conceptualizes intersubjectivity at a deeper level of understanding than the researchers. He is able to identify with Fern as his equal, exemplifying the capacity for egalitarianism between humans and animals. Likewise, humans possess the ability to connect relationally and learn from the environment. Indigenous culture consists of many stories relating to the environment, such as the one presented in Shanley's article about Bull Lodge, a young boy who aspires to gain prestige in his tribe. Having “faith and affection for the Chief Medicine Pipe,” Bull Lodge embraces the pipe as his “guide and teacher.” So he entrusted his life to him” (as quoted in Shanley 185). Rosemary parallels Bull Lodge in that she relates to and respects the non-human being; recognizes that the environment represented in the pipe offers wisdom and direction while seeking prestige just as Rosemary recognizes that Fern has abilities beyond conforming to human communication. In both stories, humanity benefits from collaboration with nonhuman beings, whether through mentorship or an expanded communication perspective. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Humanity limits their capabilities in case they consider themselves superior to the natural world. Shanley and Calarco both support the view that humankind is equal to nonhuman beings in nature, closing the loop between the environment and animals working alongside humans. Egalitarianism between humans and non-humans allows the capacities of each being to be overcome and replaced by intersubjectivity. While this will “require humility on the part of humans, who must negotiate for power rather than dominance” (Shanley 179), collaboration between beings can serve both to provide understanding of the benefit nonhumans have on the advancement of gender human is respect for animals and people. the environment.