What is Anthropomorphism?
Anthropomorphism is the attribution of human characteristics to nonhuman entities. According to the APA Style Manual (American Psychological Association, 2001), it is inappropriate in scholarly writing: “An experiment cannot attempt to demonstrate, control unwanted variables, or interpret findings, nor can tables or figures compare (all of these can, however, show or indicate)” (p. 38). Following is a helpful explanation provided during the discussion: Think of a cartoon in which a building is smiling and dancing around. The cartoonist has given the building the ability to show emotions and take actions that are characteristic of humans. Of course, a building cannot do these things. As writers, you are encouraged to use active voice and action verbs whenever possible, but always examine your verbs after you finish your first draft and ask yourself if the subjects of your sentences can really do the things you’ve said they can or whether you have created a dancing building.
