Human Perceptions of Insects

Improving how people perceive insects is a key element in gaining support for insect conservation. ‘Entomophobia’ is sometimes regarded as embedded in human minds, with many aspects of fear and loathing perhaps inherent but associated with a lack of sympathy for conservation. Changing this adverse perception through education and continuing advocacy for insect importance—such as in medicine and the food/feed industries—has potential to foster more positive perception of insect life and overcome existing prejudices and fears.