Animal Consciousness
Dreams, Jokes, and Songs July 31, 2025 DOI: 10.1093/9780198962373.003.0008 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Mammals, birds, insects, and crustaceans (bees, crabs, lobsters), with discussion of plants, bacteria, and extraterrestrial entities |
| Key points | The authors argue that mammals and birds exhibit clear signs of consciousness, while studies on bees, crabs, and lobsters indicate potential for conscious experiences such as pain and emotion. They reject consciousness in simpler organisms like plants and bacteria and contend that extraterrestrial consciousness is improbable. |
Abstract
Abstract This chapter explores the presence of consciousness in non-human entities, focusing on mammals, birds, insects, and crustaceans. Using behavioural and theoretical approaches, it evaluates consciousness through criteria such as perception, sensation, emotion, and abstract thought. The Neural Representation, Binding, and Coherence (NBC) theory provides a framework, examining mechanisms like neural representation and competition. Evidence suggests that mammals and birds exhibit clear signs of consciousness, while studies on bees, crabs, and lobsters indicate potential for conscious experiences such as pain and emotion. The chapter rejects consciousness in simpler organisms like plants and bacteria. It also raises questions about extraterrestrial consciousness, emphasizing the improbability of its evolution. This comprehensive analysis highlights diverse conscious experiences and the mechanisms that underpin them across species.