Running with Sherman

Explore E. O. Wilson’s biophilia hypothesis in terms of animal-assisted therapy. Does Wilson’s hypothesis explain the success of such therapy methods, or is there another explanation? What alternative theories exist, and how do they compare to Wilson’s?

Examine the instances in which McDougall evokes the Tao in his book. How does his conception of the Tao relate to the ancient Chinese Tao? In what ways does his conception differ?

McDougall speaks to “movement-as-medicine” as being his primary approach to Sherman’s therapy. How is this approach depicted in the memoir? What are the advantages and disadvantages of this approach?

What role does Zeke play in the memoir’s narrative? How does his character arc illuminate some of the memoir’s key themes and ideas?

How do the experiences of the animals and the humans in the memoir mirror or relate to one another? What is the significance of these connections and parallels in terms of characterization, narrative structure, and/or themes?

Apart from animal-assisted therapy, what other ways do animals aid humans in the modern world? In what other ways could the human-animal connection be re-established?

McDougall’s narrative suggests that humans owe something to animals after so many thousands of years of evolving and working together. What do you make of this idea? What, if anything, do humans owe animals?

What character did you relate to the most? Why? What formative experiences, if any, have you had through connecting with animals?