WHO TELLS A TALE ADDS A TAIL: SOCIAL WASPS IN THE IMAGINARY AND POPULAR CULTURE

Abstract

The relationship between humans and insects is not only ancient but also quite diverse. Insects are used as a food source, in the textile industry, in medicine and are especially present in the culture of various peoples. However, some insects are more neglected than others and, knowing the bad reputation of social wasps. Objective: The study aimed to investigate and present how social wasps are portrayed in the most diverse areas and how this impacts popular opinion about them and other insects. Methodology: For this, in addition to searches in the scientific literature, personal communications and prior knowledge of the authors were also used. Results and discussion: It was a big part of popular myths and beliefs and that nowadays fame as well as possible social stories are similar in movies and TV news being the main factors for his fame. Conclusion: Thus, it is clear the need for a task force of those who do, to contain these negative perceptions of insects. Simple ideas such as setting up a blog or posting photos of insects on social media can help people to admire these animals through knowledge, arousing interest in their preservation.