Worklife with Adam Grant What animal intelligence reveals about human stupidity with Justin Gregg
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Mar 7, 2023 In this engaging conversation, Justin Gregg, an expert in animal cognition and author of "If Nietzsche Were a Narwhal," explores the fascinating minds of dolphins and other creatures. He highlights their unique cognitive abilities, such as sleeping with half their brain. The discussion delves into the nuances of animal versus human intelligence, questioning the value of 'how' versus 'why' in understanding curiosity and ethics. Justin also reflects on how insights from the animal world can help us navigate our own existential challenges.
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Path to Animal Cognition
- Justin Gregg's mom and grandmother worked for the Humane Society, fostering a lifelong love for animals.
- Despite initially studying linguistics, he later pursued animal cognition, focusing on dolphin communication.
Dolphin Sleep
- Dolphins sleep with one brain hemisphere at a time to breathe while sleeping.
- This unique adaptation allows them to remain partially conscious for breathing.
Rethinking Intelligence
- Human intelligence is often assumed superior, but animal intelligence is often more evolutionarily successful.
- Many animals thrive without complex human-like thought, suggesting alternative success metrics.
