Zoology

/zoʊˈɑːlədʒi/ or /zuːˈɑːlədʒi/ noun

Definition

Zoology is the scientific study of animals, including their structure, behavior, classification, and environments. It is a branch of biology.

Etymology

“Zoology” comes from Greek “zōion” (animal) and “-logia” (study or account). It literally means “the study of animals.”

Kelly Says

The tricky part is that many English speakers say “zoh-OL-uh-jee,” almost dropping one of the o’s. Behind that awkward spelling, though, is a simple idea: turning the entire animal kingdom into a subject you can systematically study.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Zoology, like many natural sciences, developed in institutions that largely excluded women and marginalized their research. Canonical histories of zoology have often foregrounded male European scientists while minimizing the roles of women and local experts in specimen collection and observation.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'zoology' neutrally and, where appropriate, acknowledge contributions from women and non-Western researchers in the field.

Inclusive Alternatives

["animal biology"]

Empowerment Note

Women have played key roles in zoology through field observation, animal behavior studies, and conservation efforts, frequently shaping subfields such as primatology and marine mammalogy.

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