The Mirror Test: Do Animals Have Self-Awareness?

Описание: The Mirror Test: Do Animals Have Self-Awareness?

One of the most fascinating experiments in animal behavior is the Mirror Test, developed by psychologist Gordon Gallup Jr. in 1970. It explores whether animals possess self-recognition—a sign of self-awareness and higher cognitive ability.

The Experiment:
1. An animal is marked with a spot of paint or dye on a part of its body it can’t see—usually the forehead.
2. The animal is placed in front of a mirror.
3. If the animal notices the mark in the mirror and tries to touch or investigate it on its own body, it passes the test.

This suggests the animal understands the reflection is itself, not another creature.

Animals That Passed:
• Great apes (chimpanzees, bonobos, orangutans)
• Dolphins
• Elephants
• Magpies (a bird!)
• Some ants and possibly manta rays

Animals That Failed (So Far):
• Most dogs and cats (though some researchers argue the test may not suit their senses)
• Monkeys (some species recognize others but not themselves)
• Pandas and many other mammals

Why It Matters:
• The mirror test is a landmark experiment in animal cognition.
• It challenges the notion of human uniqueness.
• It raises philosophical questions about consciousness, identity, and empathy in non-human animals.

🧪 Experiments
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