Ethnoentomology is commonly defined as the study of the relationships between humans and insects. As “ethno” refers to the knowledge of “folk” or native societies and “ento” represents insects, ethnoentomology is thus often focused on the “knowledge and use of insects in different human societies”. Most ethnoentomology research looked at the use of insects as food (entomophagy), medicine and for rearing (Posey, 1986).
Cultural entomology is defined as “the study of the role of insects in those human affairs that are practiced for the nourishment of the mind and soul.” This includes the role of insects in language, literature, folklore, religion and art (Hogue C. L., 1987; Hogue J. N., 2009). Cultural entomology also overlaps with some aspects of ethnoentomology. For example, insects in ritual practices involves both the use of insects (ethnoentomology) and religious elements (cultural entomology). As aligned with Posey (1986), this blog considers cultural entomology as a subdivision of ethnoentomology.
Though rarely considered within the field of ethnoentomology, entomophobia, the fear of insects, is an interesting depiction of the relationship between humans and insects. Entomophobia is more common than other animal-related phobias (except the fear of snakes and rats) in Western societies (Hardy, 1988), and its pervasiveness may be associated with peoples’ lack of tolerance and annoyance towards insects.
In this section of ethnoentomology, we will explore the following aspects: