ABC Radio

All In The Mind

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

  • Are animals conscious?

Are animals conscious?

Saturday 30th March 2024

Dive into a lively discussion on animal consciousness with experts from neuroscience, biology, and philosophy. Are animals truly aware?
29 minutes
Informative
Thought-provoking
Engaging
Educational
Eye-opening

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All In The Mind
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ABC Radio
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Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Parenting & Children
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Are Animals Conscious? Exploring Minds Beyond Humans

Episode Overview

  • Discussion on whether animals are conscious and what it means.
  • Bruno Van Swindran's research on fruit flies and prediction errors.
  • Christina Zedenik's insights into parrot intelligence and animal cognition.
  • Deborah Brown's philosophical take on the evolution of consciousness.
  • Ethical considerations in how we treat animals based on their consciousness.
If you all pinch yourself right now, and if you feel pain, I'll say that's what it is to be conscious
Ever wondered if your pet is more than just a furry companion? This episode of 'All In The Mind' takes you on a fascinating journey into the question of animal consciousness. Recorded live at the World Science Festival Brisbane, the discussion features three experts: Bruno Van Swindran, a professor at the Queensland Brain Institute; Christina Zedenik, a biologist and science communicator; and Deborah Brown, a professor of philosophy.
Together, they tackle the perplexing question of whether animals are conscious and what that even means. From fruit flies to elephants, and even medieval animal trials, this episode covers a wide range of intriguing topics. Bruno Van Swindran shares his research on fruit flies and their ability to detect prediction errors, while Christina Zedenik discusses the intelligence of parrots and the history of animal cognition studies.
Deborah Brown provides a philosophical perspective on how our understanding of consciousness has evolved over time. Whether you're an animal lover or just curious about the mysteries of the mind, this episode offers a blend of scientific insights and thought-provoking discussions. Don't miss out on this engaging exploration of what it means to be conscious.