Teorija uma u ne-ljudskih životinja

Magđinski, Dijana. (2013). Teorija uma u ne-ljudskih životinja. Diploma Thesis. Filozofski fakultet u Zagrebu, Department of Philosophy. [mentor Gregorić, Pavel].

PDF (Croatian) - Registered users only Download (468kB) | Request a copy

Abstract

Theory of mind is the ability to attribute mental states to oneself and others in order to predict and explain behavior. It is often regarded as an ability unique to humans. This thesis will consider whether non-human animals have a theory of mind and can we reliably ascertain it. According to the behavior-reading hypothesis, animals predict behaviors of others by relying on their behavioral and environmental cues. According to the mindreading hypothesis, animals predict behaviors of others by relying on the understanding of others' mental states. Recent discoveries suggest that chimpanzees can recognize some mental states of others, but they cannot recognize others' false beliefs. Main problem of ongoing research is the possibility of interpreting results through behavioral terms. This thesis will consider, through the perspective of philosophy of science, the attempts of reducing the plausibility of one of the hypotheses. Although there are good indications to animals being mindreaders to some extent, no definite conclusions on the issue can be drawn currently. In order to settle the issue, further research will have to be conducted.

Actions (login required)

View Item