I've been looking at this Ted talk on interspecies internet, andit appears that they have selected a small number of species ofanimals (dolphin, elephant, and some ape(?)) and are intent ondeveloping interfaces for these animals to be able to connect withother animals over the internet.
From the talk, it appeared as if one of the criteria for animalselection was whether or not an animal recognizes itself in themirror. This got me thinking - there are many more cats that haveaccess to technology like the internet or TV or cats that have beeninteracting with touch screen displays. Yet apparently cats cantrecognize their own reflection as themselves.
What is so special about being able to recognize one's ownreflection? Is it a true measure of self awareness? Does it onlyappear in animals with larger brains?
I've been looking at this Ted talk on interspecies internet, andit appears that they have selected a small number of species ofanimals (dolphin, elephant, and some ape(?)) and are intent ondeveloping interfaces for these animals to be able to connect withother animals over the internet.
From the talk, it appeared as if one of the criteria for animalselection was whether or not an animal recognizes itself in themirror. This got me thinking - there are many more cats that haveaccess to technology like the internet or TV or cats that have beeninteracting with touch screen displays. Yet apparently cats cantrecognize their own reflection as themselves.
What is so special about being able to recognize one's ownreflection? Is it a true measure of self awareness? Does it onlyappear in animals with larger brains?
