From the late Christopher Hitchens, via Jackson, who said of it (remember, he is Orthodox): “… [he’s] both cynologically and theologically astute (atheist or no)…”
Owners of dogs will have noticed that, if you provide them with food and water and shelter and affection, they will think you are God. Whereas owners of cats are compelled to realize that, if you provide them with food and water and shelter and affection, they draw the conclusion that they are gods.
Hmmm. I can’t speak to theology, but I would suggest it applies, but only to “derived” modern dogs, not to the tazis, laikas, and other so- called Primitives, who seem to go about entirely confident that they are at least minor household gods… Ataika for instance:
Poster by Arthur
I hadn't encountered "cynologically" before, so I looked it up. It does seem accurate in regard to Christopher Hitchens, not only in the primary meaning of having to do with dogs but in the secondary one of being a Cynic. Cynic is believed to have derived from kunikos, doglike, because Diogenes of Sinope, the prototypical Cynic, was reported to have barked in public and urinating in the street. Who knew?
Good call, Gerry. Jack also has Classical Greek, so is probably aware of this…
A fun observation, for sure, but I also don't find such a sweeping generalization very accurate either, except for those "derived modern breeds" which I would less kindly label "domestically lobotomized breeds"! I have had far too much experience with the "primitive" and/or "independent" canine types(including those partial wolves) to EVER be so foolish as to think they viewed me as a "god"! If they did so, then they were ALL(Basenjis, Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, various husky/malamute wolf crosses, Saluki/Tazis, Azawakh, Salmon Coyote hound, Bluetick and Black-And-Tan trailhounds, and the STUBBORNEST canine of the lot, my beloved Catahoula Leopard Dog! Come to think of it, my premiere trespassing dog, my Weimaraner, can be quite willful at times, too!) a mighty BLASPHEMOUS bunch, indeed! No, these types of canines are best viewed as PACKMATES and PARTNERS, to be respected and having opinions wisely listened to–NOT the slavish, groveling sycophants most modern urban folk want in a dog companion….L.B.
I love this!!