If insects have phenomenal consciousness, could they suffer?
Animal Sentience September 1, 2016 DOI: 10.51291/2377-7478.1150 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Citations | 9 |
| Key points | Proposes that if insects have phenomenal consciousness, their potential for affective consciousness and suffering should be considered, and suggests cognitive bias as a possible indicator of animal affect. |
Abstract
: Klein & Barron’s (K & B’s) suggestion that insects have the capacity for phenomenal consciousness is a refreshing and challenging departure from the cautious and agnostic stance that is taken by many researchers when considering this possibility. It is impossible to falsify the sceptic’s view that neural and behavioural parallels between humans and insects need not imply either similar conscious experience or even any phenomenal consciousness in insects at all. But if K & B are right, it is important to consider the possible contents of insect consciousness. Here we discuss whether affective consciousness, with its implications for potential suffering, might also be part of the simulated perceptual conscious world that K & B propose. are influenced by affective state. In humans, affect-induced modulation of decision-making leads to “cognitive bias.” Can it be observed in animals and used as a novel indicator of animal affect (emotion) and welfare?