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Animal Minds: A Philosophical Puzzle
- Descartes famously argued animals don't think because they lack language and souls.
- This view contrasts with the equally flawed belief that animal minds precisely mirror human minds.
Vervet Monkey Communication
- Vervet monkeys use distinct alarm calls for different predators (leopards, snakes, eagles).
- These calls trigger specific avoidance behaviors, suggesting a potential form of referential communication.
The Philosopher's Role
- Philosophers can contribute to animal mind studies by clarifying concepts and suggesting research avenues.
- Dennett's "intentional stance" encourages treating animals as thinkers to predict behavior.