• Question: what makes us human and animals, animals

    Asked by to Edward, Ian, Mathew, Naomi, sakshisharda on 23 Jun 2014. This question was also asked by , , , .
    • Photo: Sakshi Sharda

      Sakshi Sharda answered on 23 Jun 2014:

      hello doubletrouble09

      You ask very insightful questions! Humans are humans as they can think, make decisions, empathize. While these are thought to be exclusively human there are some studies to show that animals such as chimps and some birds also show previously thought ‘human like’ behaviors. However, the way we perceive our consciousness and make sense of the world is unique to us that is the defining characteristic that makes us different.

    • Photo: Ian Stephenson

      Ian Stephenson answered on 23 Jun 2014:

      Only the fact that we’re the ones asking the question. I’m sure there are cats wandering round thinking that the world is made up of cats and non-cats. Humans are a kind of animal.

      However a related question is how are humans different from other animals. In most ways, we’re not a lot different, and even in ways we once thought we were special, like use of language, problem solving, and tool making there are increasing examples of animals being pretty good to.

      I think the answer is probably that we’re slightly better at a few important skills like language and tool making. Together they’re a really powerful combination as I can make something to solve a problem, but more importantly I can tell you about it, or tell you how to make one. In science being ‘published’ is massivly important, as once you’ve done an experiment you write it down, so everyone else can try and to it. Without that step everyone would just keep doing the same things over and over, but being able to share results lets future scientists to new experiments.

    • Photo: Naomi Osborne

      Naomi Osborne answered on 23 Jun 2014:

      A very interesting question!

      Humans are a type of animal. But what makes us different is the way our brain has evolved, how we think and process thoughts and our physical build including opposable thumbs!

      Part of what makes us human is compassion as well – the need to care for others which has been so important in our survival 🙂

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