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I think this sort of argument is inherently troublesome because it assumes that our experience of consciousness is totally unique and no non-human animal shares

I think this sort of argument is inherently troublesome because it assumes that our experience of consciousness is totally unique and no non-human animal shares any part of it in any amount. If you fail to draw that line precisely between humans and everything else, then you can't draw it anywhere else either. I think it is not possible to do the former (some animals clearly demonstrate significant cognitive capabilities), so it follows that there is no line that can be drawn. I think it is good to keep in mind that the majority of non-human animals likely see the world through a very different lens than we do, but I think we must also keep in mind that we are related to the rest of the animals and not maybe as special as we think we are. Also, the idea of "anthropomorphizing" emotions in animals (like love) is IMO kinda silly since I'm not sure we can precisely define or quantify just what it is we are supposed to be experiencing that animals definitely aren't. Not trying to be hostile; just registering my two cents.

KON_Air 10y ago
While I agree, anthropomorphizing is still a problem when it comes to relations with animals. I mean we are a wee bit special and we tend to expect too much from other animals. They really are simplier beasts in comparison. But then again sometimes we can't explain how or what we feel to ourselves, let alone what other fellow humans do. So I belivie it is presumtious to say "animals do not have emotions like we do!" or "they do!". The best we can do is being "optimistically cautious" I says! Edit: also the article is a great guide on how to drive your cat insane.
- bitwize 10y ago
  All I know is that when a cat walks his paws up my leg, insistent that I grasp him under the armpits and lift him into my arms, and subsequently puts his paws over my shoulder and purrs at the top of his lungs once I indulge his wishes, he derives some form of succor from my having been there; and that is no small thing indeed!

KON_Air 10y ago

While I agree, anthropomorphizing is still a problem when it comes to relations with animals. I mean we are a wee bit special and we tend to expect too much from other animals. They really are simplier beasts in comparison. But then again sometimes we can't explain how or what we feel to ourselves, let alone what other fellow humans do. So I belivie it is presumtious to say "animals do not have emotions like we do!" or "they do!". The best we can do is being "optimistically cautious" I says! Edit: also the article is a great guide on how to drive your cat insane.

bitwize 10y ago
All I know is that when a cat walks his paws up my leg, insistent that I grasp him under the armpits and lift him into my arms, and subsequently puts his paws over my shoulder and purrs at the top of his lungs once I indulge his wishes, he derives some form of succor from my having been there; and that is no small thing indeed!