This weekend I am attending the third annual Horses and Humans Research Foundation’s (HHRF) research conference. Years ago, as a member and the president of the board, I advocated for events like this, where people could come together and share their questions, explore methods of inquiry, and discuss the results of their efforts at increasing our knowledge of the ways in which horses-human interactions contribute to the wellness of both horses and people.

We come know things in a lot of different ways. There is focused and casual observation, experience, intuition, direct education, inculturation, among others. In my experience, the world of horse-human interactions has been dominated by the emotional and spiritual. It makes sense to me because of the powerful reactions and responses that so many have in the presence of the horse. Powerful personal experience with no real understanding of the process, the “why”, or the underlying mechanisms have always led people to invoke the spiritual.

This weekend I am reminded of a different way of knowing or coming to know. Knowing through application of the scientific method. Knowing through careful, thoughtful, and controlled research.

One of my early mentors, Cliff Notarius, used to say that “science is a way to minimize the probability that we are lying to each other.” Those who know me well, know that I am not one to engage in the worship of empirical science to the exclusion of the full range of human experience. But, I am one to value empirical science as crucial way of knowing the world. I deeply believe that our investment in the science of horse-human interactions can make the world a better place for ourselves and our equine partners.

If you believe the same, check out HHRF and consider supporting them in pursuit of their mission. I know that you and your horse, as well as the generations to come, will be glad you did. ~ Paul

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