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Significant uncertainty is common in nature

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 January 2004

Donald R. Griffin
Affiliation:
Concord Field Station, Harvard University, Bedford, MA 01730 [email protected]

Abstract

In animals' natural lives, uncertainty is normal; and certainty, exceptional. Evaluating ambiguous information is essential for survival: Does what is seen, heard, or smelled mean danger? Does that gesture mean aggression or fear? Is he confident or uncertain? If they are conscious of anything, the content of animals' awareness probably includes crucial uncertainties, both their own and those of others.

Type
Brief Report
Copyright
© 2003 Cambridge University Press

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