Knowledge

"In a secluded corner of the vibrating universe spilled on innumerable solar systems, there once was a star on which clever animals invented knowledge. It was the most arrogant moment of universal history, but only for a minute. The star was frozen after a few palpitations of nature and the clever animals had to die."

- Friedrich Nietzsche-

The two main different opinions regarding knowledge during this lesson were:

1. Humans ARE the only species that posses knowledge. (When we separate knowledge from instincts).

2. Humans ARE'NT the only species that posses knowledge. (When we separate knowledge from instincts).

In my opinion, humans are definitely not the only species who posses knowledge. I think every species possesses knowledge to a certain degree, some of course, more than others. Knowledge and culture, which is derived from knowledge, are social: they are ment to be shared and transmitted. Most species, specially mammals, live in social groups. Their lives revolve around their "living group" and they create extremely strong bonds with the other members of the group.

A great example of this is a pack of wolves. Wolves have a defined social hierarchy,there are alpha, beta, mature subordinates, omega, and juvenile wolves. There is always a male alpha and a female alpha, these two wolves are the ones who usually reproduce. The male alpha is dominant because of his strength, speed, and intelligence. The female alpha must have all these qualities, plus she must be a good teacher and transmitter of knowledge. This quality enables her to teach her pups everything they need to learn. She teaches them not only the basics of survival, but also how to behave within the structures of their society. Wolf pups learn not only when they're taught by their mothers but also when they play together. Playing is the major way in which pups learn social behaviors. Studies have shown that wolf pups that don't play with others during their childhood are usually socially inept, and therefore, rejected from the pack. During play, rank, size and strength are not important. When a wolf does the "play-bow" (laying down and then lifting it's backside) it informs the other wolf that everything they do from that moment on is play. The play-bow is a promise not to hurt or take advantage of the other wolf, even if it is weaker or has a lower social status within the pack. This is why I believe that knowledge is not unique to the human race. Many species share and transmit knowledge between them, not necessarily by words like humans do, but in many different and wonderful ways.

For more information on the behavior of wolves and other animals read "The Emotional Lives of Animals" by Marc Bekoff PH.D and Jane Goodall

I really enjoyed this lesson because I think the topic was very interesting. Most of us had different opinions, and though not all of us shared them with the class, those who did kept the discussion going in a very fluid way.