“Hey, They're Just Like Us!” Representations of the Animal World in the Discovery Channel's Nature Programming
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-24-2005
Publication Title
Journal of Popular Culture
Abstract
Along with MTV and other cable networks, the Discovery Channel has sought to establish a global brand image based on its perceived authority in educational and nonfictional documentary programming. Pierson discusses a week of prime-time nature programming on the US Discovery Channel to determine the specific thematic discourses that are represented. Addressing the ideological and social implications of Discovery's nature programs' perception of the natural world as a familiar domain, Pierson maintains that while the programs do provide factual information about animals, they also rely on the" human template of character" to perceive animals in moral and normative terms, and to engage viewers on a dramatic and emotional level.
Recommended Citation
Pierson, David P., "“Hey, They're Just Like Us!” Representations of the Animal World in the Discovery Channel's Nature Programming" (2005). Faculty and Staff Scholarship. 147.
https://digitalcommons.usm.maine.edu/usm-faculty-and-staff-scholarship/147
