Anthropomorphism
(noun)
The attribution of human characteristics or behaviors to a god, animal, or object.
Origin:
Mid 19th century: from greek anthrōpomorphos, from anthrōpos man + morphē form.
Examples:
- Anthropomorphism is a common feature of many ancient myths and legends, where gods and animals were often depicted with human qualities.
- Many children's books and cartoons feature anthropomorphized animals, such as Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny.
- Anthropomorphism can be seen as a way of making the non-human more relatable and understandable to humans.
- Critics argue that anthropomorphism can lead to a distorted and oversimplified understanding of non-human entities.
- Anthropomorphism is not limited to the representation of animals, but can also refer to the attribution of human qualities to inanimate objects or natural phenomena.