Unveiling the contradictions of bullfighting in modern Spanish society: criminological insights on cultural practices and animal rights

• In Event: Social perceptions of crme

Abstract

This paper delves into the complex realm of bullfighting in Spain, exploring its historical roots and deep cultural significance, particularly in rural communities. It exposes the violence and harm inflicted on both nonhuman animals and humans within the bullfighting industry, and how these practices are intertwined with broader societal issues, including gender dynamics. It critically examines the evolving public attitudes towards bullfighting, indicative of a shift in human-animal relationships perceptions. It also highlights contradictions in Spanish legislation, acknowledging nonhuman animal sentience and advocating for their wellbeing while exempting bullfighting from provisions on animal abuse, thus creating inconsistencies in nonhuman animal protection laws. This work concludes with a call for a nuanced understanding of cultural practices, a critical review of their intersection with (non)human animal rights, and the development of a more cohesive and ethically sound legal framework that better aligns with contemporary values and advances nonhuman animal protection in Spain.

Author

• Patricia Puente-Guerrero, UNED