Cultural Entomology

Abstract

Insects – which represent the largest and most diverse class of animal, and constitute the subject of entomology – can be encountered in almost every part and area of daily life. Insects are found in almost every livable location on earth, and comprise numerous species that are harmful and beneficial to humans. Just as there are numerous species of insects that cause damage to agricultural and residential areas, harm humans, spoil foods, and damage human tools and items; there also many species of insect that provide valuable products (honey, pollen, royal jelly, silk, etc.) and serve as a source of knowledge and inspiration for humans (in literature, poetry, novels, films, music, cartoons, folklore, handicrafts, jewelry, etc.). Furthermore, in many forensic cases, insects found in and on a corpse allow the determination of the time and location of death, as well as the post-mortem interval (Forensic Entomology). These contributions of insects to human societies, which constitute the subject of cultural entomology, reflect the indispensable role they assume in human culture. For this reason, it is important for humans to see insects as more than just harmful and frightening animals, and to realize that they constitute an important part of both nature and daily life, while also learning to live together with them

Keywords

• Insect, Human, Cultural Entomology