Elements Of Consciousness In Animals
This article discusses findings of several studies that suggest characteristics of consciousness occur in many species of animals. The author concludes that differentiating between levels and characteristics of consciousness that occur in animals, and understanding them as part of a complex spectrum, may enhance our understanding of human consciousness as well as of animal consciousness.
[Abstract excerpted from original source.]
“Consciousness is still a subject that divides scientific opinion on philosophical grounds. Does it exist in separation from cognitive processes? Are there different types and levels of consciousness? Does it exist in animals, and how can we tell? More and more features that we used to consider unique hallmarks of the conscious human mind are now also being recognised in animals ranging from chimpanzees to corvids. This opens up opportunities to study aspects of the conscious mind in animal models.”