It is well known that the study of animal intelligence is one of the most promising research areas in behavioural biology, also because it can shed light on the evolution of the human mind. Consequently, the field of comparative cognition is attracting increasing attention. However, despite this growing interest in evolutionary cognition, animals are still victims of preconceptions about their behavioural abilities, especially among nonexperts. This article provides a brief overview of some of the most significant studies on animal cognition, focusing on the findings that best erode biases about animal intelligence. Specifically, works on animal tool use, animal reasoning and problem-solving, and physical cognition were considered. The role of public understanding of science in reducing these biases is also assessed.
Intelligenze animali. Ovvero, creature intelligenti e stupide
Chiandetti C.;Gonan S
2022-01-01
Abstract
It is well known that the study of animal intelligence is one of the most promising research areas in behavioural biology, also because it can shed light on the evolution of the human mind. Consequently, the field of comparative cognition is attracting increasing attention. However, despite this growing interest in evolutionary cognition, animals are still victims of preconceptions about their behavioural abilities, especially among nonexperts. This article provides a brief overview of some of the most significant studies on animal cognition, focusing on the findings that best erode biases about animal intelligence. Specifically, works on animal tool use, animal reasoning and problem-solving, and physical cognition were considered. The role of public understanding of science in reducing these biases is also assessed.Pubblicazioni consigliate
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