
How intelligent are dolphins? Is their communication system really as complex as human language? And are they as friendly and peaceful as they are made out to be? The Western world has had an enduring love affair with dolphins since the early 1960s, with fanciful claims of their 'healing powers' and 'super intelligence'. Myths and pseudoscience abound on the subject. Justin Gregg weighs up the claims made about dolphin intelligence and separates scientific fact from fiction. He puts our knowledge about dolphin behaviour and intelligence into perspective, with comparisons to scientific studies of other animals, especially the crow family and great apes. He gives fascinating accounts of the challenges of testing what an animal with flippers and no facial expressions might be animal behaviour, Gregg challenges many of the widespread beliefs about dolphins, while also inspiring the reader with the remarkable abilities common to many of the less glamorized animals around us - such as chickens.
This book investigates the scientific validity of popular claims regarding dolphin intelligence, communication, and social behavior. Author Justin Gregg, a researcher in animal cognition, utilizes comparative biology and behavioral studies to dismantle pervasive myths. He argues that while dolphins possess remarkable cognitive abilities, they are often subject to anthropomorphic projection that obscures the reality of their evolutionary adaptations.
What You Will Find
Scope Limits
Experts and readers frequently note the accessible yet rigorous approach Gregg takes in deconstructing popular science myths. The text is widely regarded as a balanced resource for those seeking to understand animal cognition through a skeptical, evidence-based lens.
Page Count:
309
Publication Date:
2013-01-01
Publisher:
OUP Oxford
ISBN-10:
0191636037
ISBN-13:
9780191636035
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