I’ve seen animals do things that seem like they are trying to resolve uncertainty (like a cat batting at some unfamiliar object with his paw), or make a request (a dog begging for food) which both seem similar to asking questions.
I found this aspect of the topic particularly interesting because it elucidates the main requirement of a question, which I’d never thought of before: a theory of mind.
My cats ask me for food all the time… but this isn’t really a question, it’s a demand. Similarly, when they seek out information, it’s always a solitary endeavor. The closest they might come to an interaction with a human (or another cat) specifically for the purpose of gaining information, would be approaching or meowing with the presumed intention of provoking a reaction that illustrates the other’s mood. Even then it’s more like “try it and see what happens” rather than a cooperative communication. I don’t think they can conceive of another entity possessing information and being capable of sharing it.
Would love to hear of any counterexamples, though.
I’ve seen animals do things that seem like they are trying to resolve uncertainty (like a cat batting at some unfamiliar object with his paw), or make a request (a dog begging for food) which both seem similar to asking questions.
I found this aspect of the topic particularly interesting because it elucidates the main requirement of a question, which I’d never thought of before: a theory of mind.
My cats ask me for food all the time… but this isn’t really a question, it’s a demand. Similarly, when they seek out information, it’s always a solitary endeavor. The closest they might come to an interaction with a human (or another cat) specifically for the purpose of gaining information, would be approaching or meowing with the presumed intention of provoking a reaction that illustrates the other’s mood. Even then it’s more like “try it and see what happens” rather than a cooperative communication. I don’t think they can conceive of another entity possessing information and being capable of sharing it.
Would love to hear of any counterexamples, though.