Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas cover image

Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas

249 | Peter Godfrey-Smith on Sentience and Octopus Minds

Sep 11, 2023
In this discussion, Peter Godfrey-Smith, a philosopher of science and octopus intelligence expert, dives into the fascinating world of cephalopods. He explores how studying octopus cognition helps us rethink concepts of sentience and consciousness across species. The conversation reveals the unique problem-solving skills of octopuses, their remarkable nervous systems, and the evolutionary significance of their advanced behaviors. Godfrey-Smith challenges traditional views of intelligence and emphasizes the diversity of conscious experience in the animal kingdom.
01:28:06

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Quick takeaways

  • The evolution of complex nervous systems in different species highlights the influence of environmental challenges and opportunities.
  • Octopuses demonstrate signs of intelligence and likely possess sentience or consciousness.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Complex Nervous Systems

Complex nervous systems evolved independently in different evolutionary lines due to the challenges and opportunities posed by the environment. The common ancestor of humans and octopuses lived around 600 million years ago and had a simple nervous system, possibly resembling a centimeter-sized worm. Over time, behavioral complexity and cognitive abilities developed in different evolutionary branches, leading to the diverse range of animals we see today.

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