Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas 39 | Malcolm MacIver on Sensing, Consciousness, and Imagination
Mar 25, 2019
Malcolm MacIver, a professor at Northwestern University with a Ph.D. in neuroscience, discusses the evolution of consciousness, especially when fish moved to land. He explores how this transition enabled advanced planning and imagination, significant for decision-making. The conversation delves into neuroethology, the evolution of electric sensing in fish, and the implications for human cognition and ethical responsibilities toward future generations. MacIver also highlights the intersection of science and popular culture, reflecting on its role in raising awareness about critical issues like climate change.
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Electric Fish
- Electric fish, often found in the tropical fish market, have a unique body form and swim using undulating membranes.
- Many of these fish have missing tails due to predation by other electric fish, highlighting a unique underwater arms race.
Locomotion and Electric Sense
- Electric fish have evolved a unique locomotion system tightly coupled to their short-range electric sense.
- This bidirectional swimming style allows them to scan prey with their electrosensory system before consumption.
Sensory Volume
- Malcolm McIver's research revealed a surprising similarity in sensory volumes between electric fish and visually guided fish.
- Despite using different sensory mechanisms, both types of fish have evolved comparable sensory ranges, likely due to environmental constraints.
