Redefining Intelligence: Why Squirrels Might Be Smarter Than You Think

Dr Mark van Rijmenam, CSP -

Is our obsession with human-like intelligence making us blind to the true genius of the natural world?

Our human-centric view of intelligence limits our understanding of the brilliant problem-solving abilities found in other species. Intelligence is not just about having a large brain; it’s about thriving in one's environment.

From tool-using cuttlefish to strategic ground squirrels, many creatures exhibit sophisticated behaviors that challenge our narrow definitions. We often underestimate the intelligence of these animals because their ways of thinking and solving problems are so different from ours.

By expanding our perspective, we can better appreciate the diverse forms of intelligence that exist in the natural world and the new forms of artificial intelligence entering our worlds in the coming decades. Are we ready to rethink what makes a species "smart"?

Read the full article on Aeon.

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