Dahlem Workshop Report - 21: Animal Mind ― Human Mind

Más información sobre el libro

The presence of unintelligent behavior in animals, such as insects, raises questions about the existence of consciousness and intentionality in their actions. While ethologists could identify maladaptive behaviors in humans, these do not imply a lack of awareness in our species. Currently, there is no definitive evidence to confirm that insects or other animals possess consciousness or plan their actions, yet we also lack evidence to dismiss the possibility. This gap in knowledge can lead to a dogmatic negativity that hinders scientific exploration and discovery. Many researchers suggest starting from our understanding of human thinking, subjective feelings, and consciousness, then exploring whether other species might share similar experiences. This approach, once deemed anthropomorphic, is gaining acceptance as it challenges the assumption that conscious thought is solely a human trait. The critique of anthropomorphism often reflects a prior belief in human uniqueness, making it a circular argument rather than a valid objection. By opening this inquiry, we may uncover significant insights into the mental experiences of other species.