Are there animals, other than humans, that possess self-awareness?
Essentially, every creature we encounter on our journey through life possesses a form of self-awareness.
Animals make conscious and rational decisions, experience emotions and sensations, and sometimes even exhibit a sense of humor. Allow me to begin with a few stories, and conclude with references to scientific studies and recent findings.
I was born in 1963 and received a flawed education in primary school, middle school, high school, and university in Poland. The teachings may have evolved since then.
Let me share my experience.
The Story
Around 2008, after many years, I grew increasingly irritated by the noisy magpies near my home.
One night, returning from the airport, I went to bed at 2 AM due to a delayed flight, only to be disturbed by the raucous magpies preventing me from sleeping.
Living in Norway, where many people own guns, I grabbed my double-barreled shotgun, opened the skylight, and attempted to shoot the magpies. I hit none, but the next morning, I received four complaints from neighbors about the midnight disturbance. My room was littered with gunpowder and shells, taking half a day to clean, and I paid a hefty fine for the noise.
The next morning, my car was covered in bird droppings, making me reflect. As I stepped out, a magpie flew over, dropped feces on me, and pelted me with small stones. This traumatic experience was only the beginning; similar attacks followed in a nearby town’s parking lot.
The most astonishing incident occurred when I parked my car 70 kilometers away by the seaside, and the birds still managed to defile my car.
Months later, I enrolled in a hunter’s course and graduated with distinction. After completing an instructor’s course, I earned a degree in nature conservation and began working as a wildlife officer.
I once believed birds to be brainless, but I am now convinced animals are just like humans.
One snowy day, while driving with a female instructor, we saw a magpie perched on a barricade.
“Raphael, what do you think she’s doing?” she asked.
“Looking for food,” I replied, but she corrected me, “No, her partner was hit by a truck here. Magpies mate for life, and she returns every year to gaze at the spot where he died.”
At that moment, I realized animals have emotions and affections just like us.
Understanding Animal Consciousness
Recent scientific advancements have significantly changed our understanding of animal consciousness. The notion of humans at the top of a pyramid is evolving. Humans may still be at the apex, but the pyramid’s sharp edges have softened, allowing other species to stand beside us.
Several key studies have been published, such as Donald R. Griffin’s “Animal Minds,” showcasing instances of animals using tools, building structures, and even modifying human-made objects.
In 2022, researchers from the University of London discovered bumblebees exhibiting playful behavior, evidence that animal consciousness extends beyond humans and similar primates. Even animals with simple nervous systems, like invertebrates, may possess consciousness.
Another Tale
During my time in Spitsbergen, Arctic foxes posed the greatest challenge.
Polar bears are not a problem; they are intelligent and friendly. These white bears are so astute that they understand our intentions, so we always carry guns, not to shoot, but to intimidate.
Arctic foxes, however, are different. They live in small packs and prioritize shelter over food, traveling long distances in search of sustenance. Sometimes, adult foxes cooperate to raid bird nests.
I experienced such an incident when a pack of foxes raided our camp, stealing our supplies. Our greatest asset was our dogs. Two female Greenland Huskies chased away the foxes.
This experience made me realize how helpless humans can be. In the face of true danger, only our loyal dogs can protect us.
In 2012, a conference held in Cambridge saw the signing of the “Cambridge Declaration on Consciousness” by prominent scientists worldwide. The declaration stated: “Neural networks responsible for emotional states in humans are critical for the emotional behaviors in animals. Artificial stimulation of these regions generates similar behaviors and emotional states in both humans and animals.”
The declaration further stated: “We declare that the absence of a neocortex does not preclude an organism from experiencing affective states. Evidence shows that animals possess the neuroanatomical, neurochemical, and neurophysiological substrates of conscious states and the capacity for intentional behaviors. Consequently, the neural substrates for consciousness are not unique to humans. Many species, all mammals, birds, and other creatures like octopuses possess these substrates.”
This declaration affirms that animals feel emotions and act consciously, marking a significant document ending all speculation about animal feelings and consciousness.
Illuminating Animal Consciousness with Scientific Research
– Allen, C. & Bekoff, M. (1997). “Species of Mind: The Philosophy and Biology of Cognitive Ethology,” Cambridge: MIT Press.
– Bateson, P. (1991). “Assessment of Pain in Animals,” Animal Behaviour, 42, pp. 827-839.
– Bonica, J. (1990). “The Management of Pain,” 2nd ed., Philadelphia: Lea and Febiger.
– Broom, D. M. (1991). “Animal Welfare: Concepts and Measurement,” Journal of Animal Science, 69, pp. 4167-4175.
