Animal Quote by Knut Hamsun
““And looking at animals in cages doesn't interest me in general. They know we are standing there looking at them–they sense the hundreds of inquisitive looks, and it has an effect on them.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Pan, 1894
Animals sense being observed, and captivity alters their behavior, highlighting the moral impact of human curiosity.
In simple terms: Caged animals feel our gaze and change.
Key Takeaway
Respect animal autonomy.
Themes
animal rights
ethics
observation
empathy
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- zoo design
- wildlife photography
- animal welfare policy
- research ethics
Key Concepts
sentience
psychology of captivity
human‑animal relationship
Questions to Reflect On
- Should we avoid observing animals in captivity?
- How does awareness of animal perception change our actions?
A Different Perspective
Some argue observation is necessary for science.
![“I imagined I had discovered a new word. I rise up in bed and say, "It is not in the language; I have discovered it. 'Kuboa.' It has letters as a word has. By the benign God, Man you have discovered a word!... 'Kuboa' ... a word of profound import. [...] Some minutes pass over, and I wax nervous…” quote by Knut Hamsun](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bd0/knut-hamsun-1203_language_i-imagined-i-had-discovered-a-new-word-i_170312.jpg)
