Two legs good, four legs better?
In his inaugural professorial lecture Professor of Psychology David Harper has challenged the view that humans stand above other species.
“People are fascinated by animals, and you only need to spend a few hours on YouTube to see illustrations of animal intelligence” says Professor Harper. “Yet we take the perspective that we are unique and better, especially when it comes to complex cognitive functioning.”
Professor Harper pointed to a variety of strong cognitive skills in animals, including pigeons who categorically grouped Picasso paintings, chimps who could quickly recall location and numerical order of digits, and otters who showed creativity by making a slide in the snow.
You can watch Professor Harper’s lecture on YouTube.