Biology/How do we know that animals don't have feelings?
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Question
How do we know that animals don't have feelings but just are hedonistic?
Dear Kristian,
Non-human animals *do* have feelings. Emotions are adaptive, and the more complex vertebrates (reptiles, birds, mammals) show every evidence of having complex emotions and feelings.
Only a fool would believe that they are not similar to us in that regard. They may not be able to do calculus. But they can feel happiness, grief, anger, and all the emotions that have helped us survive for millennia.
Dana
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Answers by Expert:
Dana Krempels, Ph.D.
Expertise
I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!
Experience
At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).
Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980).
I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.
Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.
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