Nikita Teryoshin

Free University of Berlin

The “Glass Cow” Heidi is located in the lecture hall of the Freie Universität in Berlin. However, the glassy-looking plastic cover is missing. The model dates back to the GDR. It is not only a learning object, but also a symbol of the unchallenged superiority of humans and their supposed omniscience over the concerns of cows. With this knowledge, an artificial world of the modern cowshed was created in which everything is subordinated to efficiency.

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Madleen Bühlmayer

Research associate and doctoral candidate in the “Farm Management” department at the University of Hohenheim

It may be that the sight of such a specimen may cause discomfort for many outsiders. At the same time, the specimen illustrates how important it is to know the anatomy of living creatures. 

In addition to cows, veterinary medicine also dissects dogs, cats, and horses. Students of human medicine even come face to face with human specimens in the lecture hall. For me, such a model does not symbolize omniscience or superiority, but shows an indispensable basis for medical diagnostics and treatment.

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Prof. Dr. Jana Seifert

Director of the “Feed-Gut Microbiota Interaction” department at the University of Hohenheim

Such a model offers a unique insight into the complexity of a ruminant. I myself always find it fascinating to see how the organs are arranged and connected to each other. 

Models like this are an excellent way to illustrate, visualize, and explain the anatomy of cattle in teaching. 

This includes everything we already know – as well as what we don’t yet know. 

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