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Science, policy, and the public discourse of shark “attack”: a proposal for reclassifying human–shark interactions

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  • Christopher Neff
  • Robert Hueter

Abstract

There are few phrases in the Western world that evoke as much emotion or as powerful an image as the words “shark” and “attack.” However, not all “shark attacks” are created equal. Under current labels, listings of shark attack may even include instances where there is no physical contact between shark and human. The dominant perception of intent-laden shark “attacks” with fatal outcomes is outdated as a generic term and misleading to the public. We propose new descriptive labels based on the different outcomes associated with human–shark interactions, including sightings, encounters, bites, and the rare cases of fatal bites. We argue two central points: first, that a review of the scientific literature shows that humans are “not on the menu” as typical shark prey. Second, we argue that the adoption of a more prescriptive code of reporting by scientists, the media, and policy makers will serve the public interest by clarifying the true risk posed by sharks and informing better policy making. Finally, we apply these new categories to the 2009 New South Wales Shark Meshing Report in Australia and the history of shark incidents in Florida to illustrate how these changes in terminology can alter the narratives of human–shark interactions. Copyright The Author(s) 2013

Suggested Citation

  • Christopher Neff & Robert Hueter, 2013. "Science, policy, and the public discourse of shark “attack”: a proposal for reclassifying human–shark interactions," Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, Springer;Association of Environmental Studies and Sciences, vol. 3(1), pages 65-73, March.
  • Handle: RePEc:spr:jenvss:v:3:y:2013:i:1:p:65-73
    DOI: 10.1007/s13412-013-0107-2
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. J. C. Ryan & S. Mellish & B. R. Busque & C. A. Litchfield, 2019. "Enhancing the impact of conservation marketing using psychology: a research agenda," Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, Springer;Association of Environmental Studies and Sciences, vol. 9(4), pages 442-448, December.
    2. O’Bryhim, Jason R. & Parsons, E.C.M., 2015. "Increased knowledge about sharks increases public concern about their conservation," Marine Policy, Elsevier, vol. 56(C), pages 43-47.
    3. McCagh, Christine & Sneddon, Joanne & Blache, Dominque, 2015. "Killing sharks: The media’s role in public and political response to fatal human–shark interactions," Marine Policy, Elsevier, vol. 62(C), pages 271-278.

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